105-year-old Argentine fan's viral wish: To meet Lionel Messi

At 105 years old, Yolanda remains a passionate fan of the Argentine national football team, her enthusiasm ignited by the appearance of Lionel Messi.

Having watched every World Cup, Yolanda says her enjoyment of the sport transformed with Messi's debut for the Albiceleste. Now, as she follows the 2026 World Cup, her sole wish is to meet the Argentine captain in person. Her story has recently gained widespread attention through television programs and social media, captivating audiences with the tenderness of her message and her affection for the footballer.

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I watched all the World Cups and didn't pay attention. But since I met Messi, I haven't missed one. I love him because he is a good man, a good father.

"I watched all the World Cups and didn't pay attention. But since I met Messi, I haven't missed one. I love him because he is a good man, a good father," she shared in an interview. Her remarkable vitality at 105 years old also draws attention. When asked about her longevity, she attributed it to eating "everything," including cured ham, fries, roast meat, stew, pasta, tortillas, and shepherd's pie. She also mentioned that she used to enjoy a small whisky with ice every night at her sister's house.

In a previous interview, Yolanda sent a heartfelt message to Messi: "I adore you with all my soul. I love you, Messi. How I wish to see you. For now, I'm content with the jersey. Pretend I'm your grandma." She also recalled that Messi's favorite food is her mother's milanesas and promised to cook them for him if he ever visits. Yolanda maintains an Instagram account, managed by her granddaughter, where her family shares videos of her daily life. A recent video of her celebrating Argentina's victory against Egypt by driving through her neighborhood with honking cars and waving to people went viral.

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I adore you with all my soul. I love you, Messi. How I wish to see you. For now, I'm content with the jersey. Pretend I'm your grandma.