Messi vs Yamal...A 18 Years Story Gets Its Final Twist

Defending champions Argentina will take on Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final in New Jersey on July 19 (local time). The title clash will mark the first-ever on-field meeting between Lionel Messi and Spain’s young star Lamine Yamal, making it one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament.

Ahead of the final, UNICEF shared a memorable photograph taken more than 18 years ago during a fundraising campaign, showing a young Lionel Messi holding baby Lamine Yamal alongside his mother, Sheila. UNICEF noted that both Messi and Yamal are now Goodwill Ambassadors, using their global influence to support children's rights and well-being, making the image a symbol of football’s inspiring generational journey.