Lionel Messi prepares for another chapter in his distinguished football career, with the possibility of a deeply sentimental occasion looming. The 2026 Finalissima is scheduled, pitting the Copa América 2024 champions, Argentina, against the Euro 2024 victors, Spain. This match could mark Messi’s final appearance in this intercontinental showcase prior to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Finalissima, a contest between the champions of CONMEBOL and UEFA, returned in 2022 after a long absence. Argentina secured a 3-0 victory against Italy at Wembley Stadium. Messi’s outstanding performance that night served as a testament to his status as one of the greatest players. Fast forward three years, and the stage is set for what might be his final tournament appearance. Argentina aims to defend their title against a young, ambitious Spanish side.
A compelling subplot of the game will be the generational clash between Messi and 17-year-old Spanish talent Lamine Yamal. The pair first met in 2007, captured in a now-famous photo. Years later, they will meet on the field for silverware. Yamal expressed his desire to win the Euros and face Messi in the Finalissima. His wish has been granted, setting up a contest between football’s present and future.
The Finalissima will also signify Argentina’s first final without Ángel Di María, who retired from international football after the Copa América 2024. Di María played a pivotal role in Argentina’s recent successes. Messi is now set to lead the team alongside the next generation of Albiceleste stars. While the exact date is unconfirmed, the 2022 edition took place on June 1, suggesting a summer fixture in 2026 is probable. For Messi, this could be one of his last major challenges before the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, a tournament widely anticipated as his final international competition.