DUBAI: Lionel Messi is one victory away from one of the most remarkable reunions in World Cup history.
If Argentina defeat England in Wednesday’s semifinal, the 39-year-old captain will face Spain’s Lamine Yamal in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final, 19 years after unknowingly bathing the 5-month-old during a Barcelona charity photoshoot.
The photograph has become one of football’s most recognizable images, but its significance today extends far beyond coincidence. It is a testament to Messi’s extraordinary longevity.
Few players remain among the world’s elite at 39. Fewer still are leading reigning world champions deep into a World Cup nearly two decades after first crossing paths with a future opponent as an infant.
Spain booked their place in Sunday’s final after a 2-0 victory over France, while Argentina are now one match away from setting up the first meeting between Messi and Yamal on a football pitch.
