World Cup 2026

Spain star Lamine Yamal’s home targeted by intruders after France win

Intruders were spotted outside Yamal’s Barcelona home just hours after Spain defeated France to reach the World Cup final.

Robin Alam/ISI Photos
Sports Journalist, AS USA
Sports journalist who grew up in Dallas, TX. Lover of all things sports, she got her degree from Texas Tech University (Wreck ‘em Tech!) in 2011. Joined Diario AS USA in 2021 and now covers mostly American sports (primarily NFL, NBA, and MLB) as well as soccer from around the world.
Update:

Spain’s march to the World Cup final was followed by a worrying off-field incident involving one of its brightest stars. Just hours after helping Spain defeat France in the semifinal, Lamine Yamal was the target of an attempted burglary at his home in Barcelona, according to reports in Spain.

Two individuals were reportedly seen outside the property, with footage capturing them positioned on the perimeter wall. Before any entry could be made, the situation was detected by the player’s private security system. The suspects fled the scene after being confronted, preventing what could have been a serious break-in.

Local authorities have since been notified, with police understood to have opened an investigation following the activation of the home’s security protocols.

Growing concern over soccer players being targeted

The incident is just one of several that have affected high-profile soccer players in Spain recently. Several Barcelona players have reportedly been targeted in recent months, raising concerns about organized attempts to exploit players’ absence during major tournaments.

With many players away on international duty for the World Cup, their homes can become vulnerable, something clubs and players have increasingly had to prepare for with enhanced private security measures. Yamal, still just 19, is among those currently based abroad with the Spanish national team, and the attempted break-in occurred while he was not in the country.

From injury doubt to key contributor

The timing of the incident comes at a moment when Yamal is playing an important role in Spain’s World Cup campaign. The young forward arrived at the tournament carrying a hamstring issue that had cast doubt over his availability. While he was eased into the competition, he quickly became a regular feature in Luis de la Fuente’s lineup as Spain progressed through the knockout rounds.

Against France, Yamal once again made his presence felt, winning a crucial first-half penalty that helped set Spain on their way to victory. His direct running and ability to draw fouls have added a different dimension to Spain’s attack throughout the tournament.

Focus turns to the final

Spain’s 2-0 win over France secured their place in the World Cup final, where they will face the winner of England’s semifinal clash with Argentina. While preparations now turn to that decisive match, the attempted burglary serves as an unsettling reminder of the challenges players can face away from the field, even in the midst of career-defining moments.

For Yamal, the priority will remain on soccer as Spain aim to lift the trophy. But back home, security concerns are once again in the spotlight.

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