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Lionel Messi recalls Lamine Yamal bathtub photo before Argentina vs Spain World Cup final
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India Today
JUL 18, 2026, 4:14 AM
2 min read
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Lionel Messi recalls Lamine Yamal bathtub photo before Argentina vs Spain World Cup final

However, the history between both men extends far beyond that, as almost 20 years ago, Messi met Yamal in what is now an iconic image in football history. An introverted young Messi met Yamal, who was an infant at that time, for a UNICEF photoshoot. And now, both of them will go up against each other for the biggest prize in international football.

So, at Fanatics Fest, Messi was asked about the bathtub image by American Football legend Tom Brady and the prospect of going against Yamal on Sunday. It's safe to say that Messi's response echoed the same sentiment as everyone around the globe—just pure astonishment.

While Messi showered praise on Yamal and admitted he does follow the progress of the Spanish sensation, he wants to stop his Barca prodigy from winning the World Cup.

"Lamine is truly amazing," Messi said. "I've followed him a lot because he plays for a club I love so much. He has a chance to achieve something historic — we're going to try to make sure that doesn't happen this time."

History beckons for both men as Messi is one win away from becoming the first captain to lift consecutive World Cup trophies. Yamal has the chance to become the second-youngest player to start and win a World Cup final.

"We'll try to put on a good match, but I hope he and his team don't put on a good one," Messi said.

All eyes will be on Messi and Yamal to see who will be the best man in the World Cup final on Sunday.

India Today

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Lionel Messi recalls Lamine Yamal bathtub photo before Argentina vs Spain World Cup final | Antigravity News