Lamine Yamal vs Van der Vaart, the latest round of international football brought excitement, controversy, records, and world-class performances from both veterans and rising stars. As Euro 2025 qualifiers and Nations League matchups unfolded, some of the most talked-about names weren’t just the usual suspects.
From Lamine Yamal’s classy response to criticism, to Arda Güler’s on-field statement and off-field social media sparring with Dominik Szoboszlai, to Cristiano Ronaldo continuing to shatter records—this week had it all.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the top moments, stories, and takeaways.
Lamine Yamal: The Rising Star Who Lets His Game Do the Talking
At just 16 years old, Lamine Yamal is already a mainstay for Spain’s national team and a generational talent for Barcelona. But as with any rising star, criticism isn’t far behind. Former Dutch midfielder Rafael van der Vaart made headlines this week after commenting on Yamal’s playing style and appearance.
Speaking on Dutch television, Van der Vaart said:
“I noticed some things about Lamine Yamal that started to annoy me. His shorts were too low, he didn’t try too hard…”
Coming from a former professional, such remarks drew backlash on social media for being unnecessary and oddly personal. But Yamal chose the best way to respond—on the pitch.
Just before Spain faced the Netherlands, Yamal posted a short message:
“On a mission.”
He then proceeded to score a stunning goal in Spain’s victory. After the game, he posted a single word caption:
“this.”
The context was clear. No need for a long reply—just a goal, a performance, and a subtle but sharp answer to the criticism.
Pedri on Yamal:
His teammate Pedri, who knows what it’s like to rise quickly in Spanish football, had only praise:
“Lamine Yamal is a spectacle. His goalscoring potential is here and will keep developing.”
Yamal isn’t just responding to critics; he’s making history in the process.
Arda Güler vs Dominik Szoboszlai: The Quiet Feud Heating Up
Another young star, Arda Güler, had his own statement to make this week. The Real Madrid midfielder played a key role in Turkey’s 3-0 win over Hungary, scoring and celebrating with a gesture aimed directly at Dominik Szoboszlai.
The shushing celebration wasn’t ignored.
After the match, Szoboszlai posted just one number to his Instagram story:
“1088” — referring to the number of minutes Arda Güler has played this year for Real Madrid.
Szoboszlai’s point? Güler hasn’t seen much action at the club level. But Güler’s goal and growing influence with Turkey speak volumes. Despite limited minutes, he has 5 goals and 6 assists this season across club and country.
In many ways, Güler’s international form is putting pressure on Real Madrid to give him more minutes. The talent is undeniable.
Michael Olise: France’s Underrated Weapon
While players like Yamal and Güler draw headlines, Michael Olise quietly continues his rise. The French winger, who has been electric for Crystal Palace, has now recorded:
- 16 goals
- 11 assists
That’s just in the current season—and he added another goal and assist for France during this break. Olise’s composure, creativity, and versatility on the right wing have made him a valuable asset for Didier Deschamps.
With continued performances like this, Olise might soon be seen as one of France’s key starters heading into Euro 2025.
Karetsas Makes History for Greece
A name you might not know yet—but soon will—is Konstantinos Karetsas. The 17-year-old attacking midfielder became the youngest player in history to score a competitive goal for Greece this week.
Karetsas has already attracted interest from top clubs in Europe, and this goal will only raise his profile. For Greece, this could be the emergence of a new generation, with Karetsas leading the way.
Cristiano Ronaldo: Still Breaking Records at 39
Cristiano Ronaldo may be nearing 40, but his hunger for goals and trophies hasn’t slowed. During this international break, he:
- Scored another goal for Portugal
- Reached 929 career goals
- Was awarded a Guinness World Record for most international wins in football history: 132 wins
After the match, Ronaldo showed his trademark humility:
“It’s not about me scoring. I only want Portugal to win. If we win and I don’t play, I’ll sign it down.”
On younger players mimicking his celebration—specifically Rasmus Højlund—he said:
“It’s not a problem. I know it wasn’t meant as disrespect. I understand many celebrate like me. But I hope tomorrow he’ll be the one watching me celebrate.”
This kind of leadership, paired with his record-breaking form, proves that Ronaldo still has plenty to offer Portugal—on and off the pitch.
France’s Power Duo: Dembélé and Mbappé
France continues to impress thanks to its lethal attacking force. Leading the charge are:
Ousmane Dembélé
The speedy winger scored again, raising his goal tally to 23 goals in 2025—a career-best season so far. His improved end product and discipline on the ball have made him more than just a flashy dribbler.
Kylian Mbappé
Critics have pointed out that this may not be Mbappé’s best year. Yet the stats say otherwise: 30 goals and counting.
Luka Modrić spoke about Mbappé after facing him:
“He makes things easy. Maybe I’d never seen this before. What surprised me the most is the person he is—humble, always joking, very calm.”
He added:
“They say it’s not his best season, but he scored 30 goals. If he keeps doing this at Real Madrid, he’ll win not one but a few Ballon d’Ors.”
Modrić’s comments not only highlight Mbappé’s performance but also his growing reputation as a team player and leader.
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Joshua Kimmich’s Positional Brilliance
Germany has found a new solution in defense—by putting Joshua Kimmich back at right back. Often used in midfield, Kimmich has shown elite form in his natural full-back role during Germany’s Nations League matches against Italy:
- 4 assists
- 1 goal
- In just 2 games
His vision, crossing, and leadership from deep have given Germany a new edge. With Euro 2025 on the horizon, Kimmich might be Germany’s most important tactical asset.
What These Stories Tell Us About Football’s Future
There’s a clear generational shift happening in football. Legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modrić are still producing at a high level, but the wave of young talent is impossible to ignore.
Lamine Yamal, Arda Güler, Michael Olise, Szoboszlai, and Karetsas are no longer just prospects—they are contributors and difference-makers on the biggest stage.
Key Themes:
- Resilience: Yamal and Güler responding to criticism or rivalry with class and performance.
- Emergence of Next Gen: Players under 21 are no longer just debuting—they’re dominating.
- Veterans Still Lead: Ronaldo’s leadership and Modrić’s praise for younger teammates show a bridge between generations.
- Tactical Innovation: Kimmich’s return to right-back, Mbappé’s evolving role at Real Madrid, and Dembélé’s discipline show that elite teams are always adjusting.
What’s Next on the Cup Journey?
The international break is over, but the stories it created will carry on into club football. As players return to domestic leagues, all eyes will be on:
- Will Yamal keep his scoring streak going with Barcelona?
- Can Güler force his way into the Real Madrid starting XI?
- Will France continue to dominate with Dembélé and Mbappé leading the line?
- Can Portugal stay perfect heading toward Euro 2025 with Ronaldo at the helm?
Cup Journey will be tracking every goal, every record, and every rising star.
Final Thoughts
This international break delivered more than just scores. It brought moments that will be remembered, rivalries that will grow, and talents that will define the future of the sport.
From a 16-year-old calmly responding to a legend, to a 39-year-old breaking world records—this is the beauty of football.
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