Ballon d’Or 2026 ranking: Mbappe’s hopes fade after Yamal masterclass
Kylian Mbappe’s hopes of winning the 2026 Ballon d’Or have suffered a major blow after Lamine Yamal inspired Spain to a 2-0 victory over France in Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup semi-final, strengthening the teenager’s claim for football’s biggest individual prize.
Spain produced a disciplined performance to end France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.
However, history suggests success in major international tournaments often carries significant weight in Ballon d’Or voting, and Spain’s progression to Sunday’s World Cup final has strengthened Yamal’s case.
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