But ahead of Spain's meeting with Portugal in Sunday's UEFA Nations League final (3 p.m. ET on FOX), all eyes are on Yamal and Messi's career rival Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo, 40, is 23 years older than Yamal,

Sunday's Nations League final between Spain and Portugal is more than a generation duel between Lamine Yamal and Cristiano Ronaldo but the two players separated by 23 years will be getting most of attention.

UEFA Nations League final between Spain and Portugal approaches, Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo had some kind words for young Spanish star Lamine Yamal. However, he left a clear warning regarding his future.

Portugal will face either Spain or France in the final after beating the Germans for the first time in 25 years

With Spain in the final, the narrative has quickly shifted—could a Nations League triumph cement Lamine Yamal’s claim to soccer’s most prestigious individual honor?