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Messi vs. 19-year-old Yamal in 2026 World Cup Final

7/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Argentina and Spain will meet in the 2026 World Cup final on July 19 in New Jersey, USA.
Lionel Messi, 39, starts for Argentina, a possible final appearance in his career.
Lamine Yamal, 19, starts for Spain after winning Euro 2024 as the tournament’s youngest champion.
Messi said Yamal reminds him of himself, has the biggest future, and noted his growth-hormone treatment costs $1,000 per month paid by Barcelona.

History

Historical Context

Argentina’s 2026 World Cup final at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca— the only stadium to host three tournaments (1970, 1986, 2026)— echoes its 1986 triumph when Diego Maradona led a 3-2 win over West Germany before a crowd of 114,600. Veteran Lionel Messi now heads the side against young Spain, the 2010 World Cup champion.

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Story summary

Argentina and Spain will meet in the 2026 World Cup final on July 19 in New Jersey, USA.
Lionel Messi, 39, starts for Argentina, a possible final appearance in his career.
Lamine Yamal, 19, starts for Spain after winning Euro 2024 as the tournament’s youngest champion.
Messi said Yamal reminds him of himself, has the biggest future, and noted his growth-hormone treatment costs $1,000 per month paid by Barcelona.

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