Lionel Messi is preparing for a significant match, which could become a defining moment in his illustrious career. The 2026 Finalissima is set, with Copa América 2024 champions Argentina facing Euro 2024 winners Spain. This could mark Messi’s last appearance in the intercontinental showpiece before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Finalissima, a competition between CONMEBOL and UEFA champions, returned in 2022. Argentina won 3-0 against Italy at Wembley Stadium. Messi’s performance that night demonstrated his exceptional skills. Now, three years later, he could play in the tournament for the last time, with Argentina aiming to retain their title against a determined Spanish side.
The match will also feature a captivating generational face-off between Messi and 17-year-old Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal. The pair’s first encounter was captured in a photo from 2007, which is now widely shared. Years later, they are set to compete for a trophy. Yamal had previously expressed his wish to face Messi in the Finalissima, a wish which has come true, creating an exciting showdown between football’s present and future.
The Finalissima will also mark Argentina’s first final since Ángel Di María’s retirement from international football after Copa América 2024. Di María played a crucial role in Argentina’s recent victories, leaving Messi to lead the team. While the exact date of the match has not been officially announced, the 2022 edition was held on June 1, suggesting a summer clash in 2026. For Messi, this could be one of his final major challenges before the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, a tournament many expect to be his last on the international stage.