World Cup 2026: Handling Messi will be 'huge challenge', says Merino
Spanish footballer Mikel Merino describes the upcoming World Cup final against Argentina as a massive challenge, specifically focusing on the need to neutralize Lionel Messi. Merino expresses confidence in his team's collective effort despite the individual brilliance of the Argentine captain.
Why it matters
The World Cup final is a major global cultural event, and the focus on Messi's performance highlights his continued status as a central figure in international sports.
Football World Championship Handling Lionel Messi will be 'huge challenge' for Spain, admits Mikel Merino Handling Lionel Messi will be 'huge challenge' for Spain, admits Mikel Merino AFP Mikel Merino speaks to the press MAURO PIMENTEL / AFP / AFP / Profimedia Spanish super-sub Mikel Merino said Friday that neutralising the threat of Lionel Messi will be a "huge challenge" as La Roja prepare for their World Cup final showdown against Argentina.
Argentina skipper Messi , 39, has been pivotal in dragging the defending champions into Sunday's final in East Rutherford, orchestrating a 2-1 semi-final victory over England with two assists.
Messi, the tournament's joint top-scorer with eight goals, also inspired a dramatic comeback against Egypt in the last 16, when Argentina fought back from 2-0 down with 11 minutes remaining to win 3-2.
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