Messi calls photo with baby Yamal 'crazy' ahead of World Cup final clash

Lionel Messi described the prospect of facing Lamine Yamal in the 2026 World Cup final as "crazy," recalling a photo taken with Yamal as a baby 19 years prior. The Argentina captain spoke at a Fanatics Fest event in New York, just two days before the championship match against Spain.

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Lamine plays in a club which I love, which I always wish the best. He is one of the world's references and, at 19 years old, he has his whole career ahead of him, a great opportunity to achieve something historic that we will try to prevent from being this time.

Messi acknowledged Yamal's status as a global reference point in football, despite his youth. "He has his whole career ahead of him, a great opportunity to achieve something historic, which we will try to prevent from being this time," Messi stated. He added that Yamal plays for a club he loves and wishes well, recognizing his talent and future impact on Barcelona.

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The thing about that photo is crazy because, well, in life it is difficult to take a photo 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.

While expressing admiration for Yamal, Messi emphasized Argentina's own strengths and intentions. "We will try to play a good game so that he doesn't have his best version, although it's difficult, we will try," he said. He noted that both Yamal and Spain possess "great players, great play," but asserted that Argentina also has its own "weapons."

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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.

The event, held ahead of the final in New Jersey, also included appearances by Emiliano Martínez, Lionel Scaloni, Spain's Luis De La Fuente, and Rodri. Notable celebrity guests like Novak Djokovic, Rio Ferdinand, Kevin Durant, and Tom Brady were also present. Messi received a particularly enthusiastic reception from the audience.

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