Just hours before Argentina takes on Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, Lionel Messi shared a heartfelt message on his Instagram account. He expressed his gratitude to his teammates, the coaching staff, and everyone involved in making the Argentine national team feel like a family.
"The most beautiful part of these years has never been just the titles, but the entire journey. Sharing each day with this group, competing together, rising in tough moments, and enjoying every step," wrote the Argentine captain alongside a group photo of the Argentine delegation.
His message concluded with an emotional note: "No matter what happens tomorrow, this group has already written a story we will never forget, and no one can erase. LET'S GO ARGENTINA."
The post also included a specific thank you: "Thanks to each of my teammates, the coaching staff, and everyone who works daily to keep this team a family."
Argentina's Historic Quest in the World Cup Final
Argentina is set to face Spain on Sunday, July 19, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time, at the New York/New Jersey Stadium, the name used by FIFA for the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
La Albiceleste aims for their fourth World Cup title, having previously won in 1978, 1986, and 2022. Meanwhile, Spain seeks its second triumph after winning in South Africa in 2010.
A victory would see Argentina become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups, an achievement not seen in 64 years.
Messi's Potential Historic Feat
For Messi, 39, this marks his third World Cup final, following his appearances in Brazil 2014 and Qatar 2022. FIFA has confirmed that the Argentine will play in his third final.
If Messi takes the field, he will match Cafu as the only players to have appeared in three World Cup finals. The Brazilian participated in the finals of 1994, 1998, and 2002.
Starting the match would also make Messi the first player to begin three World Cup finals, as Cafu was a substitute in 1994.
Chasing Records and Glory
Messi enters the final with eight goals and four assists in the tournament. However, Kylian Mbappé currently leads the Golden Boot race with ten goals, having scored twice against England in the third-place match.
Those two goals have taken Mbappé to 22 overall in World Cup history, surpassing Messi's 21. The Argentine star still has a chance to equal or exceed this tally in the final.
Argentina secured their spot in the final after a 2-1 victory over England on July 15 in Atlanta. The English team initially took the lead, but Enzo Fernández equalized, and Lautaro Martínez completed the comeback with a late header.
FAQs on Argentina's World Cup Final and Messi's Legacy
When is the Argentina vs. Spain World Cup final?
The final match is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
What is Lionel Messi aiming to achieve in this World Cup final?
Messi is looking to win his first World Cup title and match Cafu's record of appearing in three World Cup finals.
How many World Cups has Argentina won before this final?
Argentina has won three World Cups, in 1978, 1986, and 2022.