UNICEF Explains Viral Photos Of Messi Bathing Baby Lamine Yamal Ahead Of World Cup Final

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has revealed the story behind the viral photographs showing Lionel Messi bathing and holding baby Lamine Yamal, confirming that the images were taken during a charity fundraising photoshoot in Barcelona more than 18 years ago.

The iconic photographs have resurfaced ahead of Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where defending champions Argentina, led by Messi, will face Spain, with Yamal expected to play a key role for the European side. The match will be played at the MetLife Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 8.00 pm Nigerian time.

The images first attracted widespread attention during the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament, which Yamal helped Spain win. They have since become one of football’s most remarkable stories, capturing the extraordinary coincidence of one global superstar posing with another before his football journey had even begun.

In a statement released ahead of the World Cup final, UNICEF confirmed the authenticity of the photographs and explained the circumstances in which they were taken.

“Yes, the images you have seen are authentic. Over 18 years ago, a baby named Lamine Yamal and his mother, Sheila, had the opportunity to meet Lionel Messi during a UNICEF fundraising photoshoot,” the organisation said.

UNICEF also highlighted the remarkable connection between the two players, noting that both now serve as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassadors and use their influence to champion children’s rights around the world.

“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 fulfils their potential. We are proud to have them on our team,” the statement added.

The photographs were taken in 2007 at Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium, when Messi was just 20 years old and establishing himself as a first-team regular for the Catalan club. At the time, Yamal was only five months old.

According to UNICEF, Yamal and his mother were selected to participate in the charity campaign after his parents won a newspaper raffle organised in support of the fundraising initiative.

The pair will now meet for the first time as opponents on the biggest stage in world football, with Messi aiming to retain Argentina’s World Cup crown and Yamal seeking to help Spain claim another global title in what promises to be a historic final.