Overview
The UEFA Nations League final is set to showcase two football talents: Lamine Yamal and Cristiano Ronaldo, with a significant age gap of 23 years. While Yamal’s career has only just begun, his accomplishments are already drawing parallels with the legendary Ronaldo.
Lamine Yamal at 17
Yamal, who celebrated his 17th birthday just after being named the Young Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024, has shattered multiple records:
- Youngest Player: He became the youngest player to appear in a Euros match at 16 years and 338 days.
- Youngest Scorer: He also became the youngest to score in a Euros match at 16 years and 362 days.
He ended Euro 2024 with one goal and four assists, including one assist in the final, making him the youngest player ever to assist in a major tournament. Yamal’s performance this past season with FC Barcelona totaled 18 goals and 25 assists across 55 matches.
If he wins the UEFA Nations League title on Sunday, his international trophy count will match Ronaldo’s at the same age.
Cristiano Ronaldo at 40
Ronaldo, at 40, holds the record for the most international goals (137) and matches played (220). His illustrious career includes:
- Winning the Euro 2016 and Nations League 2019 with Portugal.
- Five Champions League titles and being the all-time leading scorer in the tournament with 141 goals.
Although his international achievements are notable, they are often overshadowed by his extensive club success. Ronaldo’s career showcases a remarkable legacy that sets a high bar for emerging stars like Yamal.
As we approach this pivotal match in the UEFA Nations League, anticipation builds around Yamal’s next steps and whether he can live up to the incredible standards set by Ronaldo.
