Lamin Yamal, 18, and Pau Cubarsí, 19, created history by starting together in Spain's Round of 16 clash against Austria on 2 July 2026. This marked the first time two teenagers lined up together in a World Cup knockout match since Pelé and José Altafini for Brazil in their 1958 quarter-final against Wales.
Both players featured prominently in Spain's group-stage campaign that culminated in winning Group H with seven points. Their inclusion in the starting line-up against Austria demonstrated the Spanish federation's confidence in their young talent during the knockout stages.
The teenage pair represent a generational shift in the Spanish national team's composition at tournament level, with both expected to play central roles in Spain's knockout progression.