Messi Calls World Cup Final Against Yamal 'Crazy' After Viral Baby Photo

 



By Abel Chigozie


Argentina captain Lionel Messi has described it as "crazy" that he will face Spain's teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, nearly two decades after a famous photograph showed him holding the future football star as a baby. 


Speaking during the Fanatics event on Friday ahead of Sunday's final, Messi reflected on the now-iconic image taken in 2007 during a UNICEF charity photoshoot at Barcelona's Camp Nou.


"That picture with Lamine is incredible. Now we are facing each other in a final after a photo was taken of us when he was a baby. It's just crazy!" Messi said. 


The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner said he expects an exciting contest but hopes Yamal will not have a decisive impact on the match.


"We'll try to put on a good match, but I hope he and his team don't put on a good one," he joked. 


Messi also praised the 19-year-old Barcelona forward, describing him as one of the best footballers in the world despite his age.


"He's one of the best in the world right now. I wish him luck because his success will be Barcelona's success, but we'll try to stop him from playing at his best. Spain has a great team, not just him. We have our own weapons too," Messi added. 


The Argentina captain further hailed Yamal's remarkable rise, saying the teenager has a bright future ahead.


"He's a tremendous player, a global star. He's only 19 years old and has his whole career ahead of him. I wish him the best, but we'll give everything to ensure he doesn't become champion this time," Messi said. 


The famous photograph was captured by Spanish photographer Joan Monfort during a charity calendar project organised by UNICEF and Barcelona. At the time, Messi was a rising 20-year-old star, while Yamal was just a baby.


Monfort said the image has attracted worldwide attention ahead of the World Cup final.


"The photo has exploded all over the world. And now this has culminated in the final between Messi and Yamal. It is better than any film script," he said. 


Messi heads into the final in outstanding form after scoring eight goals and providing four assists to help Argentina reach their third World Cup final with him. The 39-year-old is also tied with France's Kylian Mbappé in the race for the tournament's Golden Boot as Argentina seek to retain the World Cup title. 

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