By Milcah Tanimu
The 2025 Finalissima is set to feature a thrilling contest between Copa América 2024 champions Argentina and Euro 2024 victors Spain, continuing a storied tradition that began in 1985, where the best of UEFA and CONMEBOL collide.
This year’s match promises an exciting duel, with the iconic Lionel Messi leading Argentina against Spain’s rising star, 17-year-old Lamine Yamal. The only previous interaction between Messi and Yamal dates back to a 2007 photoshoot, which has since gone viral.
Ahead of the Euro 2024 finals, Yamal expressed his dreams to RAC1, saying, “I hope Messi wins the Copa América and I win the Euros, so I can play against him in the Finalissima.” This wish has come true, setting the stage for a fascinating intergenerational football battle.
The first Finalissima in 2022 saw Messi’s Argentina defeat Italy 3-0 at Wembley Stadium. Now, Argentina aims to defend their title without the recently retired Ángel Di María, who concluded his international career with the Copa América 2024.
While the exact date for the 2025 Finalissima remains unconfirmed, it is expected to occur in the summer, following the precedent set by the 2022 edition, held on June 1. This match will be a highlight in the international football calendar, occurring during a lull in major European and South American competitions aside from FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The Finalissima offers a unique chance for fans to witness top-tier international competition outside the World Cup cycle. It stands as the last significant international tournament before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
