Yamal ahead of semi-final showdown: "Most important game of my career"

For Spain, the World Cup semi-final against France on Tuesday (9 PM in the LIVE ticker>>>) is a special match.

It's not only their first World Cup semi-final since 2010, but also only the second World Cup semi-final in Spanish history.

Sixteen years ago, "La Furia Roja" celebrated a narrow victory against Germany in the semi-final and later crowned themselves world champions in the final against the Netherlands.

"I will gift myself a trip to New York"

One person who probably doesn't have too many memories of that triumph is Lamine Yamal. Because the now-star of the Spanish team was only two years old at the time.

The day before the semi-final clash against France, the youngster celebrates his 19th birthday. His birthday wish is very clear.

"I will gift myself a victory and a trip to New York (the World Cup final venue)," says the 19-year-old at the pre-match press conference.

"We see ourselves as heroes"

Despite his already very successful career, the match against France holds clear significance. Although he is already a European champion, he sees this game as even bigger.

"This is the biggest and most important game of my career, I have no doubts about that," said Yamal.

He further adds: "Do I see myself as a world champion? Yes, absolutely. It will be difficult, but we all see ourselves as heroes, just like in 2010."

Not an easy tournament

For Yamal, who is accustomed to success, it hasn't been an easy tournament so far. The FC Barcelona star has only managed to score one goal.

While the winger has had good moments repeatedly, the youngster hasn't been able to stand out among the superstars at this World Cup. For him, however, this is completely normal.

"It's not the coach's fault that I haven't scored five goals yet. Such things happen in football, but they don't bother me," says Yamal.