FIFA World Cup 2026: “Destiny”: 18 Years After Iconic Photo, Messi-Yamal To Square Off In Final
Defending champions Argentina will take on European champions Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final on Sunday, setting up the first-ever on-field meeting between Lionel Messi and Spain’s teenage star Lamine Yamal.
The final at MetLife Stadium comes nearly 18 years after the two footballers first met during a charity photoshoot organised by Catalan newspaper Diario Sport in 2008, when Messi, then a 20-year-old Barcelona player, posed with an infant Yamal at Camp Nou. The photoshoot, captured by freelance photographer Joan Monfort, featured Yamal alongside his mother, Sheila Ebana.
Ahead of the World Cup final, UNICEF shared the now-iconic photograph on X, recalling the unlikely connection between the two players.
“Yes, those photos you’ve seen are real. More than 18 years ago, a baby named Lamine Yamal and his mom Sheila met Lionel Messi at a UNICEF fundraising photoshoot,” UNICEF wrote.
The organisation noted that while both footballers have gone on to inspire millions through their achievements on the pitch, they are also connected by their roles as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors.
“Today, their achievements on the pitch inspire millions. Off the pitch, both Messi and Lamine Yamal use their voices and platforms as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors to support and advocate for children around the world,” the post said.
UNICEF added that its shared mission with the two footballers is to ensure “that every child survives, thrives, and fulfils their potential,” concluding, “We are proud to have them on our team.”
Barcelona also shared the photograph on X, describing it as a “Magical photo” by the club’s foundation.
Argentina booked their place in the final with a 2-1 comeback victory over England, scoring a stoppage-time winner after trailing 1-0. Spain secured their berth with a 2-0 win over France.
Messi heads into the title clash leading the Golden Boot race after contributing two assists in Argentina’s semi-final victory. Yamal, who became the youngest player ever to be nominated for the Ballon d’Or at the age of 17, will make his first senior appearance against the Argentine captain as Spain seek to dethrone the defending champions.
Beyond the sporting significance, the final will also bring full circle a remarkable story that began with a charity photoshoot nearly two decades ago, when a young Messi held the future Spanish star in his arms.
