Spanish football prodigy Lamine Yamal found himself at the center of a social media storm ahead of the World Cup, facing questions about his fitness and his outspoken pro-Palestine activism.

On the eve of Spain's match against Saudi Arabia in Atlanta, Saudi fans chanted "Where is Yamal?" in a playful jab reminiscent of the viral moment from Saudi Arabia's 2022 World Cup win over Argentina.

Yamal, recovering from a hamstring injury, came on as a substitute in Spain's opening goalless draw against Cape Verde, failing to break the deadlock. Saudi Arabia drew 1-1 with Uruguay the same day.

However, Yamal responded emphatically in the second match, scoring in the 10th minute to become only the second player aged 18 or younger to open the scoring in a World Cup match, after Pelé.

He played 64 minutes, completing 88% of his passes and taking six shots. After the match, he posted on Instagram: "I'm here."

Yamal, the Muslim son of a Moroccan father and Equatorial Guinean mother, has used his platform to condemn Islamophobia and support Palestine. Upon scoring, he performed sujood (prostration) and flashed the "304" sign, referencing his childhood neighborhood's postal code in Mataro.

His activism has drawn criticism, but Yamal remains undeterred. In an interview with El Pais, he said: "I see myself as much better than people see me. The road ahead is very long, and I have many things to improve."

Source: www.aljazeera.com