Spain's Yamal, Porro remain fitness concerns before FIFA WC final
New Jersey, July 17
Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro trained separately from the rest of the Spain squad during the team's first training session in New Jersey as the team began preparing for the FIFA World Cup final against Argentina.
Both players were seen stretching on the sidelines as their teammates trained at the New York Red Bulls' facility in New Jersey.
Yamal, who was troubled by a hamstring strain before the tournament, had his left thigh strapped, though the extent of his condition was unclear. Diario AS reports that the decision to keep him away from the main group is largely a preventative measure.
Yamal has logged 496 minutes of play and has started every match at this World Cup, except against Cape Verde. Porro, meanwhile, started five of the seven matches Spain played in the World Cup and has played 444 minutes, scoring in the round of 32 against Austria and again against France in the semi-final.
Yamal headed the World Cup after a spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury and, while he may not have hit top gear yet, there are signs he could be peaking at the perfect time. Yamal's pace and movement led to the penalty which gave Spain the lead in their semi-final against France and he looked extremely sharp throughout.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente said after his side's semifinal victory over France that Porro was suffering from muscle tightness and would be assessed before the final. He also said Yamal was fine. "As far as I know, Lamine has nothing serious. I've just spoken with the medical staff, and everything looks positive," he added.
Sunday's match will be Spain's first World Cup final since it won the tournament in 2010. Argentina is chasing back-to-back titles and a fourth overall, having previously won in 1978, 1986 and 2022.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Spain's approach to managing their players' fitness is commendable—keeping them on the sidelines for a precautionary measure shows they're thinking long-term. Porro's goals from defense have been crucial, and Yamal's energy upfront is a game-changer. A fully fit squad would make this final a classic!
As a neutral fan, I'm just hoping for a cracker of a final! Argentina are the defending champions, but Spain's young guns have been impressive. If Yamal and Porro are even 80% fit, it'll be a tight contest. The 2010 final was special for Spain; can they recreate that magic? 🔥
Honestly, I think Spain should rest Yamal if there's any doubt. He's still young, and rushing him could lead to a long-term injury. The team has depth—players like Olmo or Torres can step up. Better to lose a final with a fit squad than gamble on a single player. Just my two paise!
I'm a huge Messi fan, so I'm rooting for Argentina, but I have to admit Spain's football is beautiful to watch. Yamal's rise has been phenomenal, and Porro is a dark horse in attack. Let's hope the final lives up to the hype—may the best team win! 🇪🇸🇦🇷
Fitness concerns aside, Spain's preparation seems focused and methodical. De la Fuente's calmness is reassuring. But let's be real—Argentina has that never-say-die spirit, and Messi will be desperate to end on a high. Spain's
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.