Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has described it as “crazy” that he is preparing to face Spain’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final, years after an iconic photograph showed him holding Yamal as a baby.
Speaking at the Fan Fanatics event on Friday ahead of the showpiece, Messi reflected on the widely shared image, saying it has taken on an entirely new meaning now that the two are set to meet on football’s biggest stage.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said the twist of fate was extraordinary, noting that the baby he once cradled is now one of the game’s brightest young talents and his opponent in the biggest match in world football.
“That picture with Lamine is incredible. Now we are facing each other in a final after a photo was taken of us when he was a baby, it’s just crazy!” Messi said, according to ESPN.
“The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said he expected an entertaining contest but hoped Yamal would not have much influence on the outcome.
“We’ll try to put on a good match, but I hope he and his team don’t put on a good one,” he added.
Messi also acknowledged Yamal’s rapid rise, describing the Barcelona youngster as one of the world’s finest players despite his age.
He said, “He’s one of the best in the world right now. I wish him luck because his success will be Barcelona’s success, but we’ll try to keep him from playing at his best. Spain has a great team, not just him. We have our own weapons, too.”
The Argentina captain further praised the 19-year-old, saying his future in football remained exceptionally bright.
“He’s a tremendous player. A global star. He’s 19 years old and has his whole career ahead of him. I wish him the best, but we’ll give it our all to ensure he doesn’t become champion this time,” Messi said.
The famous photograph was taken by Spanish photographer Joan Monfort as part of a charity calendar organised by Sportnewspaper and UNICEF at Barcelona’s Camp Nou.
Fate would later see Yamal emerge from Barcelona’s academy to become one of world football’s brightest talents before setting up a World Cup final showdown with Messi.
