Yamal hits back at Rafael van der Vaart criticism

Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal hits back at Rafael van der Vaart criticism after scoring for Spain

Lamine Yamal scored a brilliant goal for Spain against the Netherlands on Sunday night in the Nations League quarter-finals at Mestalla.

Barcelona’s teenager made it 3-2 in extra-time with a curling finish after taking a ball over the top down with a great touch from the outside of the boot.

Yamal also celebrated by taking aim at recent criticism from former Netherlands and Real Madrid midfielder Rafael van der Vaart.

The Dutchman had said before the match:

“It seemed like Yamal didn’t take well to facing Hato. These are things I notice: I see things that start to bother me a little. Shorts a little lower, not putting in much effort, slightly superficial gestures…” he said.

“That’s when I think: if you’re so young, you should be happy with every minute you play for Spain. No matter how good you are: at that age, you have to prove it every minute and in every game. But that doesn’t change the fact that Hato simply had him in his pocket.”

And Yamal responded by hitching his shorts a little lower as he celebrated another fine goal to add to his growing collection.