‘No fear, only motivation’

Lamine Yamal has not been experiencing any nerves ahead of Barcelona’s first leg semi-final clash against Inter Milan in the Champions League tonight.
The teenage star, who picked up two assists over the weekend as Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-2 to clinch the Copa del Rey title, said he was eager to face the Italians.

““I’m really excited, it’s my first [European] semi-final. I’ve not had any fear, but I have motivation ahead of the game — I think the butterflies in your stomach are good, all of us players have them. But fear… I left fear back in Mataro [Yamal’s hometown] a long time ago,” said Yamal.

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The 17-year-old winger has become a key figure on the right flank, where Blaugrana’s all-time top goalscorer Lionel Messi operated for many years, with both players coming through their La Masia youth academy.

Barcelona last reached the Champions League final with Messi on the right of the attack in 2015 and Yamal is hoping to lead the Catalan giants back there this season. However, the Spaniard shirked away from any comparisons with the Argentine legend.

“I don’t compare myself to him, because I don’t compare myself to anyone — and much less with Messi. I’m going to enjoy myself, and be myself,” said Yamal.
Barcelona enter the match as firm favourites — they currently lead the La Liga table in addition to winning the Copa del Rey — while their opponents are in a shock slump late into the season.

Simone Inzaghi’s team have lost their last three games. They were ousted from the Coppa Italia semi-final by AC Milan whilst surrendering their lead in Serie A to Napoli.

Nevertheless, Hansi Flick is wary of Inter Milan and the challenge posed by their resolute defence.

“We are only focused on the first leg and that is the first part of the objective. Inter will be very difficult, they are one of the best defensive sides in Europe. They have a great midfield and great full-backs. We have to be ready,” Flick said.

The German coach outlined his plan to stop Inzaghi’s side from gaining the upper hand at the Montjuic Stadium.

“In midfield, they will have five players and we will have to protect the spaces. 

“For us, it’s very important to keep the ball and reduce mistakes. As well as being focussed in defence,” Flick added.

07
No. of goal contributions (goals + assists) by Yamal in 11 UCL games 

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