Valentino Acuna scored a goal for Argentina’s U17 national team against Japan at the U17 World Cup on Tuesday, helping Argentina win 3-1.
But Acuna is no ordinary young forward. He was chosen as a stuntman for Lionel Messi in the 2014 film Messi. Acuna was specifically chosen to imitate Messi in dribbling scenes because of his ability with the ball in scenes depicting his childhood.
The entire film is a documentary, but it includes some scripted scenes starring actors like Acuna for dramatic effect. Scenes and clips from Messi’s childhood are among the most praised by critics and fans.
Acuna is now 17 years old and was only 8 years old at the time of filming. His goal against Japan on Tuesday was his first in international competition.
Acuna was born in the same Argentinian town where Messi was born – Rosario, Santa Fe. Acuna plays for Argentinian sporting club Newell’s Old Boys’ youth club, the same club Messi also played for as a child.
Earlier this year, Acuna represented Argentina in the U17 South American Championship. He played 9 games there and scored, but Argentina lost 3-2 to Brazil.
In December, Messi led Argentina to defeat France in the final to win the 2022 World Cup. He is currently in training camp in Argentina after his first season with Inter Miami in MLS. Messi said on Tuesday he would attend the 2026 World Cup in North America if Argentina defends its Copa America title next year.