Spain’s World Cup final clash against Argentina is set to feature a thrilling duel between Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi, with both players vying not only for global glory but also for Ballon d’Or recognition. Former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta has shared his thoughts with GOAL, explaining why Barcelona’s teenage sensation could outperform the Argentine icon. All eyes will turn to New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium as the world watches this captivating contest unfold.

With Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane already bowing out, the stage is now set for Yamal and Messi to take centre stage. The FIFA showpiece event on Sunday sees European champions Spain face South American giants Argentina, who are also the reigning World Cup holders after reclaiming the title at Qatar 2022.

Messi illuminated the 2022 tournament in Qatar, winning the Golden Ball and later collecting his record-extending eighth Ballon d’Or. Now 39, the evergreen Inter Miami forward remains in contention for yet another individual accolade, proving he is still among the elite.

Many of Messi’s potential rivals for the Ballon d’Or have already fallen away, including France captain Kylian Mbappe and England skipper Harry Kane, both of whom suffered heartbreak in the semi-finals. For Yamal, who recently helped Barcelona secure the 2025-26 La Liga title, this final offers a perfect platform to elevate his claim for football’s top individual honour. Though yet to make a decisive mark for Spain in this World Cup, the young winger cannot be discounted.

Gaizka Mendieta believes the 19-year-old is reserving his best for the grand occasion. Speaking in association with BetVictor, the former La Roja midfielder told GOAL that Yamal’s form could peak at just the right time. When asked whether last year’s Ballon d’Or runner-up could go one better this time, Mendieta said, “The World Cup is the decisive factor for the Ballon d’Or. For the same reasons Harry Kane might have won it, Lamine Yamal could too. He had an amazing season despite some injuries and was crucial for Barcelona. He remains vital for Spain.”

He added, “If Spain wins, we should look into their squad for candidates. Mikel Oyarzabal is another outstanding player who has impressed many. But if Argentina win, Messi will take it.”

Messi was decisive once again for Argentina in their semi-final victory over England, providing two assists and turning the match around in Atlanta. The Barcelona legend has mastered how to handle the enormous attention that comes with his stature. Yamal, meanwhile, is still learning to cope with such intense scrutiny. His explosive style often forces opponents to double or triple mark him, sometimes attracting as many as four defenders. Despite that, he thrives under pressure, relishing the challenge of weaving past defenders while also contributing to the team’s overall play by freeing up space for teammates.

Mendieta observed, “Lamine Yamal often faces two, three, or even four players surrounding him. He hasn’t quite reached his absolute best form lately, but reaching the final will surely boost his confidence. He is a special kind of weapon for Spain.”

He continued, “Whenever he has the ball, he draws defenders, which opens up space for others. We have benefited from this with Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella pushing forward. It’s crucial to use Lamine’s threat even when he isn’t at his peak.”

“Even if he isn’t scoring—he did have a goal disallowed against France—his mere presence gives the team belief. He wants to be the best player on the pitch in the final.”

Yamal has been managing a minor injury, having sat out a pre-final training session with strapping on his thigh. Although the Spanish camp is taking no risks with his condition, expectations remain high that he will feature in Luis de la Fuente’s starting eleven.

In New Jersey, Yamal will come face-to-face with Messi—the man whose iconic No.10 shirt he now wears at Camp Nou. The performances of these two left-footed maestros could very well determine who lifts the trophy in what promises to be one of the most memorable finals in football history.