Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Scores & Results

Messi and Lamine Yamal set to meet in World Cup final on Sunday

Sky Sports Football • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 17, 2026, 2:30 PM

Last updated Jul 17, 2026

Messi and Lamine Yamal set to meet in World Cup final on Sunday

Summary

Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal will face each other for the first time in the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain on July 19, 2026. The upcoming match highlights a remarkable connection as the two players first met in 2007 during a charity photoshoot. This World Cup final could potentially be Messi's last appearance in the tournament. As Argentina's lead scorer with eight goals, Messi expressed that it is 'crazy' to meet Yamal after their initial photograph. The match will take place in New Jersey and is pivotal as Argentina aims to retain their title against the rising star Yamal.

Source Links

Sky Sports Football

By the Numbers

•Match scheduled for July 19, 2026, in New Jersey.
•Messi scored eight goals in the tournament.
•Yamal debuted for Barcelona at age 15 and is now a key player for Spain.
•First meeting captured in a charity photoshoot in 2007.
•Messi acknowledges Yamal's rising status in global soccer.

What they're saying

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Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal will play against each other for the first time when Argentina face Spain in Sunday's World Cup final.
— Sky Sports Football

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