Messi and Yamal prepare for World Cup final showdown after historic meeting

Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal are set to meet on the pitch for the first time as Argentina takes on Spain in the World Cup final. This match features two players at vastly different stages of their careers, with Messi widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, while Yamal is seen as a rising star. Their encounter is particularly poignant given their unique history together.

Remarkably, Messi and Yamal first crossed paths 19 years ago in 2007, when Messi was just 20 years old and Yamal was a mere six months old. The two met during a charity photoshoot organised by a Catalan newspaper and Unicef, where Yamal's family had the opportunity to photograph their baby with a Barcelona star. This moment has now resurfaced as they prepare to compete against each other on the world stage.

Photographer Joan Monfort captured the iconic images from that day, which have gained renewed attention ahead of the final. Monfort expressed joy at the global recognition of the photo, which was shared by Yamal's father on social media, highlighting the significance of the moment. As they prepare for the match in New Jersey, the contrast between their initial meeting and their current circumstances is striking.

Messi, who has been a key player for Argentina in the tournament, reflected on the surreal nature of facing Yamal in the final. He described the situation as 'crazy', particularly given their past. Yamal, who debuted for Barcelona at just 15, has quickly established himself as a formidable talent, and Messi acknowledged his potential while expressing a desire to prevent him from achieving World Cup glory this time around.

via Sky Sports