Bangladesh midfielder Hamza Choudhury has backed Kylian Mbappe over Lamine Yamal to make the decisive difference when France face Spain in the first semifinal of the FIFA World Cup tonight, despite describing the teenage Spaniard as the best player in the world at present.

Speaking during the 'bKash Presents The Dream Cup with Hamza' show, Hamza praised Yamal's remarkable maturity and football intelligence but said Mbappe's proven pedigree in the biggest matches would ultimately sway his choice.

"When we look at the sheer magic on the pitch today, Lamine Yamal stands out as a global superstar who plays with a maturity far beyond his teenage years," Hamza said.

"I genuinely believe he is the best player in the world right now. He does not just rely on his incredible pace and power to beat defenders; he uses his deep football intelligence to control the game, play the perfect final pass and bring his teammates into the action."

Hamza also highlighted Yamal's role in Spain's UEFA Euro 2024 triumph, saying the youngster had already shown he could shine on football's biggest stage and possessed the qualities to become one of the game's all-time greats.

However, when asked who he would trust with one clear chance to decide the match, the midfielder had no hesitation in choosing France captain Mbappe.

"He is a player built for the highest pressure," Hamza said, pointing to Mbappe's hattrick in the 2022 World Cup final as evidence of his ability to deliver when it matters most.

"If the match is tied in the final minutes, and everything comes down to one clear chance, I am choosing Kylian Mbappe every single time."

Hamza said Mbappe's experience, composure and ruthless finishing made him the player he would back in the biggest moments. "Talent and flair are wonderful to watch, but experience and a killer instinct win championships. That is why I would trust Mbappe to deliver when it matters most. When the trophy is on the line, he is the ultimate match-winner."