Lamine Yamal will now fulfill a longtime dream when Spain takes on Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final.

The Spanish star will face Lionel Messi in an official match for the first time when the two teams meet in Sunday’s final.

Days earlier, Yamal was asked by Mundo Deportivo which player he most wanted to exchange shirts with during the tournament.

“Messi… in the World Cup final,” he replied, while also expressing his hope that Spain would face Argentina in the decisive match.

That wish has now become reality.

Spain booked their place in the final after defeating France 2-0, while Argentina came from behind to secure a dramatic 2-1 win over England in the second semifinal.

The final will bring together two players from different generations of Barcelona’s famous academy.3