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The final stretch of the 2026 FIFA World Cup is here, but the tournament still has numerous stories waiting to unfold.

From emotional goodbyes to generational rivalries, the intensity could not be greater as football fans brace for a thrilling conclusion.

As the curtain begins to fall on this summer’s global spectacle, several storylines are set to define its closing chapter.

Among them is one of international football’s longest-serving managers bidding farewell. Saturday’s third-place play-off between France and England will mark the end of Didier Deschamps’ era as head coach, with Zinedine Zidane reportedly ready to step in as his successor.

Deschamps took over from Laurent Blanc 14 years ago following a successful spell at Marseille. Few could have predicted that his appointment would usher in a golden age for French football.

Although he has been fortunate to lead one of the most talented generations in the sport’s history, Deschamps’ skill in managing egos, sustaining consistency, and achieving success on the biggest stages has been exceptional.

France’s dream of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final was ended by Spain, but the 57-year-old will leave as the most successful coach in Les Bleus’ history.

He remains one of only three individuals ever to win the World Cup both as a player and as a manager.

A bronze medal in North America would be a fitting farewell, but even without it, Deschamps’ legacy as a winner is already assured.

Sunday’s final brings with it an irresistible subplot — Lionel Messi versus Lamine Yamal — a battle between Barcelona’s past and future.

Eighteen years after Messi famously cradled a baby Yamal during a charity photoshoot, the two left-footed maestros will now face off in a contest that could shape football’s future.

Messi reached football’s pinnacle in Qatar four years ago, sealing his immortality in the twilight of his career. Yet, a second consecutive World Cup triumph would likely settle the ‘Greatest of All Time’ debate once and for all.

In contrast, Yamal stands at the dawn of his journey. Having just turned 19 on Monday, the young Barcelona winger already boasts a European Championship medal.

Despite being instrumental in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, Yamal has experienced a more challenging World Cup campaign this summer. Nevertheless, he has one final opportunity to display his extraordinary talent on the world’s grandest stage.

Comparisons with Messi have followed Yamal since his first appearance at Camp Nou, and destiny now sees them collide in a historic encounter at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Speaking to the media ahead of the final, Yamal acknowledged the comparisons but made his stance clear: while he is honoured by the association, he doesn’t aspire to be Messi. “He knows that I don’t want to be him,” Yamal said, adding that he intends to “follow his own path.”

And what better way to carve his own identity than by defeating his childhood idol?

Will the master impart another valuable lesson, or will the world witness the rise of a new football dynasty? All will be revealed on Sunday.

According to The Athletic, Argentina’s impressive campaign in North America has propelled Messi back into serious Ballon d’Or contention — a remarkable feat considering he currently plays in Major League Soccer.

The legendary Johan Cruyff was the last player to win the Ballon d’Or while playing outside Europe’s elite leagues, accomplishing that in 1971 during his decorated spell with Ajax.

Before the World Cup began, Messi was not even in the Ballon d’Or discussion. However, his outstanding performances throughout the tournament have completely reshaped the race, tilting the odds in his favour.

Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane had been frontrunners before their national sides were eliminated in the semi-finals, while Yamal was said to be just behind them.

Yet, by helping Spain reach the final, the young Barcelona star has significantly boosted his prospects — as has Messi, who now chases a record-extending ninth Ballon d’Or title.

Messi’s tally of eight goals and four assists also puts him in prime position for the Golden Boot, while Yamal, despite Spain’s flawless campaign, has found the net only once.

It still seems almost surreal, but when Messi is involved, the improbable often turns into the inevitable.

Despite Messi’s resurgence, both Kane and Mbappe remain strong contenders in the Ballon d’Or race, adding another intriguing angle to a match neither team ideally wanted to contest.

England’s captain has been exceptional this season, and this may be his best opportunity to gain the individual recognition his career merits.

After going goalless in his last two outings, the 32-year-old will be determined to find the back of the net again and guide England to a third-place finish.

Mbappe, who had a subdued display against Spain, will likewise be eager to make amends.