FC Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-2 in the Spanish Super Cup final thanks to a brace from Raphinha and a goal from Robert Lewandowski. On that night, the third part of the triumvirate, Lamine Yamal, also had an excellent game.
The Spanish teenage sensation, who initially struggled to get to grips with Alvaro Carreras, grew into the match and had his counterpart on a string by the time it ended. It was refreshing to see Lamine play in that manner.
After the game, Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, who was at the ground in Jeddah, offered the highest praise, highlighting Lamine’s impact. As reported by Mundo Deportivo, he said:
“I’m happy I’ve retired.”
Rio Ferdinand Ferdinand was one of the most difficult defenders to face in his generation. He had a reputation for being very hard to get past, and for him to speak so highly of an attacker shows the quality that Lamine Yamal possesses.
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA - JANUARY 11: Lamine Yamal of FC Barcelona reacts during the Spanish Super Cup Final between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images
Lamine is already well recognised on the world stage, finishing second in the Ballon d’Or rankings, only behind Ousmane Dembele last season. He has continued to go from strength to strength so far this season.
The Spaniard is currently battling a pubalgia issue and is unable to play at his explosive best. Despite this, he has managed to perform at a high level and adapt his game to the circumstances.
Barcelona will be hoping that he can continue to impact matches at the highest level and help the club win more silverware in the coming months.