Lionel Messi is poised to participate in a significant match, possibly one of the most emotionally charged of his career. The 2026 Finalissima is confirmed, with Copa América 2024 champions Argentina set to compete against Euro 2024 winners Spain. This event could be Messi’s final appearance in this intercontinental competition before the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The Finalissima, which showcases the champions of CONMEBOL and UEFA, was revived in 2022. Argentina defeated Italy 3-0 at Wembley Stadium, with Messi delivering a performance that highlighted his status as one of the greatest players of all time. Now, three years later, the stage is prepared for what could be his last participation in the tournament, with Argentina aiming to defend their title against a dynamic Spanish team.
The event will also feature a noteworthy encounter between Messi and 17-year-old Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal. The pair’s initial meeting occurred in a viral photo from 2007. Years later, they are scheduled to face each other on the field, not for a photo opportunity, but to compete for a trophy. Yamal expressed his hopes of winning the Euros and facing Messi in the Finalissima, a wish that has now been realized, setting up a contest between football’s present and future.
The Finalissima will also mark Argentina’s first final since the international retirement of Ángel Di María. The veteran winger, who played a crucial role in Argentina’s recent victories, concluded his international career after Copa América 2024, leaving Messi to lead the team alongside the next generation of Argentinian players. While the specific date is yet to be announced, the 2022 edition took place on June 1, suggesting a summer match in 2026 is likely. For Messi, this could be one of his final major matches before the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, a tournament widely expected to be his final appearance on the international stage.