Why Mikel Oyarzabal, not Lamine Yamal, took Spain's penalty kick to open scoring vs. France

In the 20th minute, Spanish star Lamine Yamal snuck behind Lucas Digne, who, in an attempt to kick the ball, made square contact with the young phenom. The result: a penalty for Spain, which was converted by Mikel Oyarzabal.

While many fans expected Lamine Yamal to take the penalty after earning the opportunity for his team, it was the Spanish striker Oyarzabal who added to his Golden Boot tally instead.

There are multiple factors as to why Spain may have decided to have the striker attempt the penalty kick over the 19-year-old.

Here's why Oyarzabal, not Lamine Yamal, took Spain's opening penalty kick against France.

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Mikel Oyarzabal penalty kick vs. France

In the 22nd minute of Spain's semifinal match against France, Lamine Yamal was tripped by Lucas Digne inside the French box. Referee Ivan Barton wasted no time before pointing towards the penalty spot, and many viewers believed this was Lamine's moment to score for La Roja.

It was Oyarzabal, Spain's leading scorer at the 2026 World Cup, who stepped up behind the ball to take the shot after a lengthy delay. Here is the Spanish forward's flawless effort that went directly into the top right corner: 

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Why Mikel Oyarzabal, not Lamine Yamal, took Spain's penalty kick

There are multiple reasons as to why Spain may have opted for Oyarzabal to take the penalty kick instead of Lamine Yamal. First, the striker has been La Roja's leading scorer at the 2026 World Cup. Prior to his shot from the spot, Oyarzabal was up to four goals.

While Lamine Yamal has been one of the sport's bright spots at his young age, this is the 19-year-old's first World Cup. Nerves may be at an all-time high for the prodigy, so Spain may have opted for the more surefire scorer to convert from the spot.