Cristiano Ronaldo has hailed Lamine Yamal as a “phenomenon” while calling for the football world to “leave him alone”. Ronaldo, whose Portugal side beat Yamal’s Spain on penalties in the Nations League final on Sunday, was full of praise for the 17-year-old, who started in both the semi-final and final.

Cristiano Ronaldo lifted a trophy. Lamine Yamal lifted eyebrows. One ended in tears of joy, the other in silent frustration.

Cristiano Ronaldo has urged people to be patient with Lamine Yamal after Portugal pipped Spain on penalties in the Nations League final. Veteran Ronaldo proved his worth again for Roberto Martinez ’s side, popping up with a second-half equaliser to force a shootout before watching on as his side prevailed over their Iberian rivals.