In a series of iconic events, the FIFA World Cup 2026 between Argentina and Spain will also showcase the legendary duel between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal in New York on Sunday, July 19. The two La Masia graduates represent the present and the future of the sport, with Messi regarded as the defining player of his generation and Yamal emerging as the next big thing. Both stars have played a big role in guiding their respective countries to the title clash.
Lionel Messi opens up on facing Lamine Yamal in FIFA WC final
Notably, their connection began nearly 20 years before this historic summit clash. Messi first met Yamal during a UNICEF photoshoot, when the Argentine was still a rising player and the future Spain star was just an infant. Years later, the pair are set to meet again on football's biggest stage of all time, this time as competitors competing for the world title.
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During the Fanatics Fest event, Messi was questioned by NFL legend Tom Brady regarding the bathtub image and the feeling of facing Yamal on Sunday. Reacting to the viral image, Messi admired Yamal's talent and admitted that he follows him a lot, as he represents Barcelona. While adding, Messi said that the entire Argentina team will look to stop Yamal from winning the World Cup.
"That picture with Lamine, now we are facing in a final after a photo was taken of when he was a baby. It's just insane. Lamine is truly amazing. I've followed him a lot because he plays for a club I love so much. He has a chance to achieve something historic — we're going to try to make sure that doesn't happen this time," said Lionel Messi to Braddy.
Lamine Yamal's underwhelming campaign so far
So far, Lamine Yamal has experienced a silent individual campaign at the FIFA World Cup 2026, scoring only one goal in the tournament. However, it would be wrong to say that Yamal hasn't been effective in any aspect of the game, as he contributed a lot in terms of creativity and displayed his maturity throughout the competition.