World Cup
Vidic hails Yamal’s Messi-like impact after injury-causing duel
Former Manchester United captain Nemanja Vidic has labelled Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal a ‘Mini Messi’ after the teenager’s relentless movement contributed to a Portugal defender’s injury in Spain’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 win.
Vidic, a 38-year-old Serbian, praised Yamal’s influence on the match, highlighting how the Barcelona winger’s dribbling and persistent attacking runs repeatedly stretched the Portuguese defence. The Manchester United legend singled out the duel with Portuguese full-back Nuno Mendes as particularly intense, noting that Mendes was forced to leave the field in the 56th minute with an injury sustained during their exchanges.
The Paris Saint-Germain defender was replaced by Nelson Semedo after struggling physically, with Vidic directly linking Yamal’s performance to the injury. “He made him run down the wing several times with his dribbling tricks and ended up injuring Nuno Mendes on one of those runs,” Vidic said. “Lamine caused Nuno Mendes’ injury. That’s the kind of player he is.”
Vidic’s admiration extended beyond the physical impact, drawing a striking comparison between Yamal and Lionel Messi. “This lad is wonderful and special; he’s a ‘Mini Messi’ in my opinion – that’s what I call him,” the former Manchester United defender remarked. “Lamine Yamal doesn’t run in a straight line. He is always making runs with the ball and doing something incredible. It’s simply a pleasure to watch him on the field.”
The clash between Yamal and Mendes had been one of the most anticipated individual battles of the Round of 16, with Mendes previously keeping Yamal under control in earlier meetings. Despite not dominating the game in his usual fashion, Yamal’s persistence and willingness to attack repeatedly created problems for the Portuguese defence.
Spain’s victory secured their place in the quarter-finals, while Portugal’s World Cup campaign concluded with their Round of 16 exit. Vidic’s comments underscore the teenager’s growing reputation as one of football’s most exciting young talents.