Messi and Yamal photo gains significance before World Cup final
ESPN • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 16, 2026, 3:55 AM
Last updated Jul 16, 2026
A photo taken nearly 19 years ago of Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal has gained renewed attention ahead of the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. The image shows a young Messi cradling a five-month-old Yamal during a charity event in 2007, long before either player achieved their iconic status. As both players prepare for the match at MetLife Stadium, the image symbolizes a generational connection in football. Messi arrives in the final after an assist in Argentina's semifinal win, while Yamal has emerged as a key player for the Spanish side after a standout performance at Euro 2024.
- •The photo was taken during a charity event in December 2007.
- •Messi provided the decisive assist in Argentina's semifinal comeback over England.
- •Yamal has become a central figure for Spain after their Euro 2024 success.
- •The World Cup final will see Messi and Yamal face off after years of their careers evolving.
- 3:42 AMESPN — Messi: Yamal photo 'incredible' path to WC final
- 3:55 AMYahoo Sports — Viral Messi-Lamine Yamal Photo Takes on New Meaning Before World Cup Final
"A photo taken nearly 19 years ago now connects Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal ahead of a World Cup final few could have imagined. The post Viral Messi-Lamine Yamal Photo Takes on New Meaning Before World Cup Final appeared first on HEAVY.
"Argentina captain Lionel Messi called his viral 2007 photo with a baby Lamine Yamal "incredible" on Friday, ahead of their historic matchup in Sunday's World Cup final.
Sources
External links- ESPNJul 18, 2026, 3:42 AMMessi: Yamal photo 'incredible' path to WC final
Argentina captain Lionel Messi called his viral 2007 photo with a baby Lamine Yamal "incredible" on Friday, ahead of their historic matchup in Sunday's World Cup final.
- Yahoo SportsJul 16, 2026, 3:55 AMViral Messi-Lamine Yamal Photo Takes on New Meaning Before World Cup Final
A photo taken nearly 19 years ago now connects Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal ahead of a World Cup final few could have imagined. The post Viral Messi-Lamine Yamal Photo Takes on New Meaning Before World Cup Final appeared first on HEAVY.
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