The Metropolitano is preparing to receive a visitor who, although in the past caused a great stir, today brings very positive memories to Spanish fans. This is Sene Lammens, Manchester United's starting goalkeeper, who in the 2026 World Cup played a decisive role in the Spanish National Team's qualification to the semifinals. This will be his first visit to Spain after that controversial meeting with La Roja.
The episode occurred on July 10 at the World Cup, when Spain and Belgium faced each other in the quarterfinals. The match ended 2‑1 in favor of Spain, with a goal from Mikel Merino in the 88th minute that sealed the victory. At half-time, the score was 1‑1 thanks to a goal from Fabián Ruiz and a response from De Ketelaere. In the second half, the Spanish defense showed solidity, but Real Madrid goalkeeper Lamine Yamal suffered an injury in the 71st minute and was replaced by Lammens, who had been called up as a reserve.
Lammens remained calm during the first minutes, but in the 88th minute he failed to stop a Cubarsi shot that was left in the area, allowing Merino to score the decisive goal. The error, although technical, became a historic moment because it ensured Spain's entry to the semifinals against France. The fans celebrated Lammens' performance, because without him La Roja would have been left out of the tournament.
Now, the Belgian goalkeeper returns to Spain for a friendly match against Atlético de Madrid. Fans of the club and the national team are curious to see if the goalkeeper will remember that mistake or if he will focus on his current performance. Lammens' visit also offers an opportunity for the Metropolitan to remember an episode that, despite being controversial, ended up benefiting La Roja.
The match promises to be a technical spectacle, with Atlético's defense and Lammens' talent in goal. The fans hope that the goalkeeper can demonstrate his quality without the shadow of that past mistake. The match will also serve as preparation for the next international tournament, where Spain and Belgium will cross paths again.