FIFA World Cup: Old Lionel Messi-Lamine Yamal photo resurfaces before Argentina vs Spain final

Ahead of Argentina and Spain’s meeting in the FIFA World Cup final, an old photo of Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal from a UNICEF campaign has resurfaced.

The photo, credited to Joan Monfort, shows a young Messi holding baby Yamal, a moment that was later confirmed by UNICEF.

“Yes, those photos you’ve seen are real. More than 18 years ago, a baby named Lamine Yamal and his mom Sheila met Lionel Messi at a UNICEF fundraising photoshoot,” UNICEF said in a social media post.

“Today, their achievements on the pitch inspire millions. Off the pitch, both Messi and Lamine Yamal use their voices and platforms as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors to support and advocate for children around the world.”

Messi and Yamal will face off in the final on Sunday (early Monday, Philippine time), representing Argentina and Spain, respectively.

—JKC, GMA News