What happened: Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí has identified facing Lionel Messi and Argentina as his dream scenario for the 2026 World Cup. The 19-year-old center-back recently noted his desire to meet the reigning champions on the sport's biggest stage.

Why it matters: A matchup between Spain and Argentina would pit one of La Roja's foundational defensive pieces against Lionel Messi in what is expected to be his final international tournament. With Spain in Group H and Argentina in Group J, the two sides can only cross paths in the knockout stages.

What to watch: Spain opens its World Cup campaign against Cabo Verde on June 15, while Argentina begins its title defense against Algeria the following day.