Argentina captain Lionel Messi stressed that the match against Spain will not be limited to stopping the threat of Lamine Yamal, confirming that the opponent has many outstanding elements, while he trusts his country's team to defend their world title in the anticipated match scheduled for Sunday.

During a meeting with a number of fans in Manhattan, New York City, Messi said: 'Spain is not just Lamine; they have many wonderful players and a distinctive style of play, and we also have our weapons.'

He added: 'He is a world reference at age 19 and has a historic opportunity to achieve a historic feat, but we for our part will try to give our best so that he does not achieve it this time.'

Clash Between Two Generations

The final match carries a special character, as Messi, aged 39, will face Lamine Yamal for the first time, in a meeting between one of the greatest football legends and one of the most promising talents, also embodying a clash between the past, present, and future of Barcelona.

Impressive Numbers for Messi in the Tournament

Argentina's captain enters the final match after delivering outstanding performances in the tournament, as he tops the World Cup scoring list with eight goals, tied with France's Kylian Mbappé.

He also holds the record as the all-time top scorer in World Cup finals with 21 goals, one ahead of the French striker, and has led his national team to the final after keeping their chances of defending the title alive through several thrilling victories decided in the final moments.

On the other hand, Lamine Yamal has only scored one goal in his first World Cup appearance, having arrived at the tournament without full physical readiness due to an injury he suffered during the final stage of the Spanish league.

Although the young player has not caught attention with his individual numbers, he has played an important role in the outstanding collective performance presented by the Spanish team under the leadership of coach Luis de la Fuente.

A Photo from the Past Returns to the Forefront

The anticipated match brought back to mind the famous photo taken in 2007, in which Messi is seen bathing Lamine Yamal when he was a baby, during a charity photo session.

The Argentine captain commented on the photo, saying: 'To have a photo with him when he was a baby, and now we are competing in the World Cup, this is crazy. He is one of the best players in the world currently, and I wish him all the best.'

Argentina and Spain are scheduled to meet on Sunday evening at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, on the outskirts of New York City, in an anticipated final to decide the World Cup title.