Football’s next global showcase now has a date and venue. The Finalissima between Spain and Argentina will take place on March 27, 2026, in Doha, Qatar, setting up a highly anticipated meeting between Barcelona rising star Lamine Yamal and legend Lionel Messi.
The match will bring together the reigning European champions and Copa America holders, continuing the tradition revived in 2022 when Argentina defeated Italy at Wembley.
This edition, however, carries a generational storyline that has captured Barcelona fans’ attention worldwide.
¡Tenemos Finalissima! ¿Quién se la lleva esta vez? 🔥🏆https://t.co/EwClZBIVt0 pic.twitter.com/MBM2TV6Gbv
— CONMEBOL Copa América™️ (@CopaAmerica) December 18, 2025
Indeed, beyond the clash of continental champions, the game carries a storyline that resonates deeply with Barcelona supporters as it pits the current face of the team, Lamine, against the greatest ever player to play for the club in Messi.
Comparisons between Yamal and Messi have followed the Spanish winger almost from the moment he broke into the first team.
Just 18 years old, he is already counted among the best footballers across the globe and even finished second in the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings.
Now, he gets to share the pitch against the record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, someone who he sees as his idol – Messi.
For Barcelona supporters, this match feels personal. It is the club’s past and future meeting on a major international stage, even if they wear different colours.
Joan Laporta, FC Barcelona president
Joan Laporta, FC Barcelona president
Marcus Rashford, Barcelona player
Marcus Rashford, Barcelona player