A heartwarming photo of Lionel Messi and a baby Lamine Yamal has gone viral on social media ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain on July 19.
The image, which has attracted widespread attention, shows a nine-month-old Yamal sitting in a bathing basin while Messi gently places a hand around him during what was later confirmed to be a UNICEF fundraising photoshoot.
Other photographs from the same session show Yamal’s mother, Sheila, alongside the Argentine star, with Messi smiling at the infant as Yamal laughs in a memorable moment.
As the images spread online, some social media users questioned whether they had been created using artificial intelligence. However, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) confirmed that the photographs are genuine.
“More than 18 years ago, a baby named Lamine Yamal and his mom Sheila met Lionel Messi at a UNICEF fundraising photoshoot. 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. The goal? That every child survives, thrives, and fulfills their potential. We are proud to have them on our team,” UNICEF wrote on X.
The resurfaced images have gained even greater attention as Messi and Yamal prepare to face each other in one of football’s biggest matches, with Argentina and Spain set to battle for the 2026 World Cup title.
The viral post has sparked a wave of reactions online, with some fans joking that Messi “blessed” Yamal with his football talent during the photoshoot, while others described the remarkable connection between the two stars as an incredible coincidence.
Many also praised UNICEF for bringing the pair together years before they both became global football icons and Goodwill Ambassadors for the organisation.
