Rabat – Lamine Yamal is set to fulfil one of his biggest football dreams after Spain and Argentina secured their places in the 2026 World Cup final.
The Spanish star will face Lionel Messi in an official match for the first time when the two teams meet in Sunday’s final.
Days earlier, Yamal was asked by Mundo Deportivo which player he most wanted to exchange shirts with during the tournament.
“Messi… in the World Cup final,” he replied, while also expressing his hope that Spain would face Argentina in the decisive match.
That wish has now become reality.
Spain booked their place in the final after defeating France 2-0, while Argentina came from behind to secure a dramatic 2-1 win over England in the second semifinal.
The final will bring together two players from different generations of Barcelona’s famous academy.
Messi established himself as one of football’s greatest players during his long career with Barcelona, while Yamal has emerged as one of the club’s brightest young talents.
The match could also carry special significance for Messi, who may be making his final World Cup appearance.
For Yamal, it will be an opportunity to compete against the player he grew up admiring, and potentially leave the stadium with Messi’s shirt after the biggest match of his young career.
