Lionel Messi’s Child Stunt Double Scores for Argentina in U17 World Cup

Valentino Acuna scored a goal for Argentina's U17 National team in the U17 World Cup against Japan on Tuesday, helping to deliver a 3-1 win.

But Acuna is not just any young striker. He was cast to fill in as Lionel Messi's stunt double in the 2014 film "Messi." Acuna was specifically chosen to emulate Messi in dribbling scenes due to his ball-handling ability in scenes depicting his childhood.

The film as a whole was a documentary, however it included a handful of scripted scenes with actors like Acuna for dramatic effect. The scenes and segments of Messi's childhood were among the most praised by critics and fans.

Acuna, who is currently 17, was just eight years old at the time of filming. His goal against Japan on Tuesday was his first ever in an international competition.

Acuna was born in the exact same Argentina town that Messi was born in — Rosario, Santa Fe. Acuna plays for the youth club of Argentine sports club Newell’s Old Boys, which Messi also played for as a child.

Earlier this year, Acuna represented Argentina in the U17 South American Championship. He played nine games and managed to score a goal there too, but Argentina lost to Brazil 3-2.

Messi led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup victory in December, defeating France in the final. He is currently at Argentina's training camp after his first season with Inter Miami of MLS. Messi said on Tuesday he will play in the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in North America, if Argentina retain the Copa America next year.