The stage is set for the 2025 Finalissima, a showdown between the Copa América 2024 winners Argentina and the Euro 2024 winners Spain. The inaugural Finalissima was held in 2022, continuing a tradition of UEFA and CONMEBOL's top teams facing off dating back to 1985.
The inaugural Finalissima, held in 2022 at Wembley Stadium, saw Lionel Messi's Argentina triumph over Italy 3-0. The 2025 edition promises another captivating clash as Argentina, led by the legendary Messi, takes on a rising Spain team spearheaded by 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal.
Yamal, who has only met Messi once before in a photoshoot, expressed his desire to face his childhood idol in the Finalissima. "I hope Messi wins the Copa América and I win the Euros, so I can play against him in the Finalissima," he declared to RAC1.
The 2022 Finalissima was played on June 1, suggesting that the next edition will likely take place in the summer of 2025. With no major European or South American competitions scheduled until the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the Finalissima provides a tantalizing clash before the global tournament.
Argentina will be without Ángel Di María in the Finalissima, as the 36-year-old forward announced his retirement from international soccer before the start of Copa América 2024. Di María's absence will leave a void in the Argentine squad, but Messi's presence ensures they remain a formidable force.
Spain, on the other hand, is building a promising team around Yamal. The young midfielder has drawn comparisons to Xavi and Andrés Iniesta and is widely regarded as one of the most promising players in world football.
The Finalissima presents a fascinating matchup between two teams at different stages of their development. Argentina boasts a wealth of experience and a legendary talisman in Messi, while Spain has youthful exuberance and a rising star in Yamal. Both teams will be eager to claim the trophy and establish their dominance in the rivalry between UEFA and CONMEBOL.
The encounter will also provide an intriguing chapter in the rivalry between Messi and the Spanish national team. Messi has faced Spain on numerous occasions, including in the 2010 FIFA World Cup semifinal and the 2018 UEFA Nations League finals, but he has yet to lead Argentina to victory over his rivals.
The 2025 Finalissima promises to be a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the best of international football. Argentina and Spain will bring contrasting styles and aspirations to the match, ensuring an unforgettable clash of titans.
