Lamine Yamal still wears braces. Barcelona’s teenage sensation has emerged as opponents’ No. 1 problem thanks to his speed, creativity, and gorgeous goals from Lionel Messi’s old spot on the right flank.

Barcelona midfielder Gavi has dismissed comparisons between his teammate Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi, insisting that the young Spaniard needs to be allowed to forge his own path.

BARCELONA — Lamine Yamal put on a spectacular show as Barcelona sailed into the Copa del Rey quarterfinals with a dazzling 5-1 victory over Real Betis on Wednesday. Atletico Madrid joined it in the last eight with a 4-0 win at second division Elche, its 15th consecutive triumph across all competitions.