Lionel Messi anticipates another significant moment in his career, with the upcoming match potentially carrying a great deal of sentiment. The 2026 Finalissima is officially set, featuring a clash between Copa América 2024 winners Argentina and Euro 2024 champions Spain. This event could be Messi’s final appearance in the intercontinental showpiece before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Finalissima, which pits the champions of CONMEBOL and UEFA against each other, returned in 2022, with Argentina defeating Italy 3-0 at Wembley Stadium. Messi delivered a masterclass performance that reminded fans of his legendary status. Now, three years later, the stage is set for what could be his final participation in the tournament. Argentina will aim to defend their title against a youthful and competitive Spanish side.
The match also presents an intriguing generational face-off between Messi and 17-year-old Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal. The pair first met in a photo from 2007, which has since gone viral. Many years later, they will compete on the pitch. Yamal previously stated his desire to win the Euros and play against Messi in the Finalissima, which has now become reality. This sets up a captivating encounter between the present and future of football.
Argentina’s team will also be without Ángel Di María, who retired from international football after the Copa América 2024. Di María was vital to Argentina’s recent successes, and Messi will now lead the team with the next generation of Argentinian players. The date of the match is yet to be confirmed, but the 2022 edition took place on June 1, which suggests a summer fixture in 2026. The match could be one of Messi’s final opportunities to shine before the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, which is widely believed to be his final international appearance.