The curtain comes down on the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday as Spain and Argentina battle for football’s biggest prize at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Spain are chasing their second World Cup title, while defending champions Argentina are aiming to become only the third nation in history to retain the trophy after Italy and Brazil.
Road to the Final
Spain have been one of the tournament’s standout teams. After a goalless draw against Cape Verde in their opening match, Luis de la Fuente’s side have won six straight games, conceding just one goal and keeping six clean sheets.
La Roja reached the final with victories over Austria, Portugal, Belgium and France, including a composed 2-0 win over France in the semi-finals.
Argentina’s journey has been less straightforward, but the reigning champions have continued to find ways to win. Lionel Scaloni’s men have scored 19 goals in the tournament and came from behind to beat England 2-1 in the semi-finals.
The Albiceleste are now one win away from back-to-back World Cup triumphs and a place among football’s greatest international teams.
Key Battle: Messi vs Spain
All eyes will be on Lionel Messi, who is expected to play in what could be his final World Cup match. The Argentine captain is hoping to become the first player to lift the World Cup trophy twice as captain.
For Spain, teenage star Lamine Yamal has yet to dominate the tournament in front of goal, but his pace, dribbling and creativity have remained key to La Roja’s success. The Barcelona winger will be looking to produce a memorable performance on the biggest stage.
Team News
Spain have no major injury concerns and are expected to stick with the side that comfortably defeated France.
Argentina are also expected to field a full-strength squad, with Messi leading an attack that has scored at least twice in every knockout match.
Head-to-Head
The two nations have met only once at the FIFA World Cup, with Argentina claiming a 2-1 victory in the 1966 group stage.
Prediction
Spain have been the tournament’s most balanced team, combining a strong defence with clinical finishing, while Argentina have relied on their attacking quality and ability to deliver in crucial moments.
With both teams full of world-class talent, another close contest is expected, but Spain’s defensive solidity could prove decisive.
Prediction: Spain 2-1 Argentina.
