Spain’s 3-0 round-of-32 success over Austria turned a few heads as Luis de la Fuente's men continue their hunt for their first World Cup title since 2010.
Yamal led the line once again but blanked against Austria in a performance that many supporters will forgive him for as he produces so much off the ball.
After booking a last 16 tie against Portugal, Hazard was keen to praise the 18 year old who he admits reminds him of his old self as spoke with Stake.
“Lamine Yamal reminds me a bit of when I started playing. I was around the same age and everyone expected a lot from me.
“But in the end, if he enjoys himself on the pitch the way he knows how to, I can definitely see him having a great World Cup.
“He’s the kind of player people love to watch. That’s what football is all about, you have to enjoy yourself and make people dream.”
Spain play Portugal on Monday in Dallas at World Cup 2026 and Yamal revealed that he and his side are not scared of the challenge that awaits them as they aim to go all the way this summer.
”We have to keep improving, in our play and intensity, but we know the quality we have and we aren’t afraid of any team; we are Spain. We have to show it on the field, but we have faith in ourselves,” he told reporters.
“It would be an honor to play against Cristiano (Ronaldo), obviously, but I’m focused on winning the game and I don’t care who gets through.”