Messi - Yamal: FIFA gives the green light for the showdown! | OneFootball

FIFA approves a Messi - Yamal clash

Messi - Yamal: FIFA gives the green light for the showdown!

The world of football is set for a blockbuster encounter. FIFA has officially approved the upcoming Finalissima between Spain, the reigning European champions, and Argentina, Copa América holders. This high-profile showdown will take place on March 27, 2026, at the Lusail Stadium in Doha, the legendary venue of the last World Cup final.

A highly anticipated generational clash

Beyond the symbolic trophy, this fixture promises to be a genuine passing of the torch between 38-year-old Lionel Messi and 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, the new star of Spanish football. Messi, boasting an unrivaled list of honors, could be playing one of his final major international nights. Yamal, hailed by sections of the European press as his successor, will experience his first true global duel against his childhood idol.

The 2022 edition already left a mark with Argentina’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Italy at Wembley. This time, the stage will be completely different: Doha, the Gulf heat, and two national teams at their peak.

Yet a slight suspense remains: FIFA still ties the final date to Spain's qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Barring an unlikely playoff scenario, Luis de la Fuente’s Spain is expected to secure their ticket in the coming weeks.

If all goes as planned, the football world will witness a historic moment next March: Messi versus Yamal, the legend against the rising star, in a Finalissima already destined to be unforgettable.