Lionel Messi continues to dazzle at 39 years old, but Spain refuses to mark him closely in the World Cup final. Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente confirmed that his team will not attempt to neutralize the Argentine genius with man-to-man marking, despite the brilliance of the Albiceleste star.
The decisive match takes place this week, with Messi aiming to secure his second consecutive World Cup and the coveted Golden Shoe. Spain, the European champion in 2024 and unbeaten in 37 matches since 2014, faces one of the greatest challenges in its history as it goes up against what many consider the best player of all time. Luis de la Fuente recalled a curious episode: “When I was coaching Sevilla in the second division and we played against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey, we assigned a player to mark Messi tightly. At 70 minutes, it was 0-0, and when we removed the marker after he received a yellow card, Messi scored four goals in fifteen minutes.”
The Spanish coach explained that he will not make the same mistake: “We will pay attention to Messi, but in the same way that they will have to pay attention to our players.” Regarding Spain's offensive hopes, de la Fuente highlighted young Lamine Yamal but dismissed comparisons to Messi: “Lamine has to be himself. Messi will never be repeated. He is an extraordinary talent and, above all, an example for young people because of his attitude, behavior, and the spectacle he is providing in this World Cup.”
Before the big showdown, the coach emphasized the importance of valuing the opportunity: “The important thing is to be in a position to win. Let's enjoy it, play our way, and appreciate this. If someone told me I could play in a World Cup final every year and lose, I would sign up for that right away.” The final promises to be a clash of talent and brilliance, with two top teams competing for the ultimate title in world football.
O MUNDIAL 2026 VIVE-SE COM A LEGO
AGORA PODE ACOMPANHAR O MUNDIAL DE FUTEBOL COM TODA INFORMAÇÃO – AQUI
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