Barcelona midfielder Gavi has hailed Lamine Yamal as the best player in the world after Lionel Messi, following the teenager’s outstanding performance in the 5-1 Copa del Rey victory against Real Betis on Wednesday.

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Yamal was unstoppable, scoring one goal, assisting two others, and having another ruled out for offside. His efforts helped Barcelona secure a spot in Monday's quarterfinal draw.

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At just 17 years old, Yamal has already scored nine goals and provided 13 assists in 24 matches this season, cementing his status as one of football's brightest talents.

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"Yes, he is," Gavi told reporters when asked if Yamal is already the best player in the game. "Well, after Lionel Messi, he's the best."

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Yamal, who helped Spain win the European Championship last summer, had an impressive season last year, finishing eighth in the Ballon d’Or rankings.

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He also won the Kopa Trophy and the Golden Boy award, both recognizing the best young player in the world.

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The young star has cemented his place in Barcelona’s first team, making over 70 appearances so far. On Wednesday night, he was a constant threat to Betis.

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After Gavi scored the opening goal, Yamal delivered a stunning lobbed pass to set up Jules Koundé for Barcelona’s second goal. Yamal created another chance for Koundé, but the goal was disallowed following a lengthy VAR review for offside.

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Later in the match, Yamal thought he had scored Barcelona’s third, but VAR ruled it out for offside once again. However, he showcased his brilliance with a solo run from his own box, leading to Raphinha’s goal.

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Substitute Ferran Torres added a fourth goal before Yamal finally found the net, finishing confidently after receiving a pass from Fermín López. Vitor Roque, on loan from Barcelona to Betis, scored a late penalty for Betis as a consolation.

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"You know, Gavi's very emotional, so I say yes as well," Barça coach Hansi Flick said in a news conference when asked if he agreed with Gavi's take on Yamal. "You can see it. I think in great matches you see big talent and he's showed it many times. He's on a really good way. But we have to take care about him."

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