Messi calls facing baby-photo subject Yamal in World Cup final 'crazy'

Lionel Messi described the situation of facing a baby-photo subject, Lamine Yamal, in the World Cup final as "crazy." The Argentine captain spoke at a Fanatics Fest event in New York, two days before his team's match against Spain. Messi acknowledged Yamal's talent, calling him one of the world's best players.

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It's crazy because, well, in life it's difficult to take a picture with a baby and then face him in a World Cup. The truth is it's crazy. He is one of the best in the world right now, without a doubt, and I wish him a lot of luck because it will also be good for Barcelona.

"It's crazy because, well, in life it's difficult to take a picture with a baby and then face him in a World Cup," Messi said. "The truth is it's crazy. He is one of the best in the world right now, without a doubt, and I wish him a lot of luck because it will also be good for Barcelona."

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We will try to play a good game so that he doesn't have his best version, although it's difficult, we will try. Both he and Spain have great players, great play, and we also have our weapons.

Despite his praise, Messi stated Argentina would try to prevent Yamal from performing at his best. He acknowledged Spain's strong team and their own "weapons." The event also included Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni, goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, Spain's coach Luis De La Fuente, and player Rodri. Tennis player Novak Djokovic, former footballer Rio Ferdinand, NBA star Kevin Durant, NFL legend Tom Brady, comedian Kevin Hart, and rapper Travis Scott were also present.

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When one is well accompanied by good footballers, one usually makes few mistakes, and that gives me peace of mind to make decisions at any time of the match.

Scaloni reflected on football as a childhood game, while Martínez highlighted the joy Argentina's 2022 World Cup win brought. De La Fuente emphasized mutual respect, and Rodri spoke of the team's readiness to give their all in the final, stressing the importance of calmness and unity under pressure.

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In the end, we all live moments of maximum tension, and I think the important thing in those situations is to stay calm. Maintaining calm and confidence is key in those types of tournaments. There are no teams that do not go through difficulties during the tournament, and those are the moments when we have to be most united. The team is prepared for Sunday to give absolutely everything.