Spain, Argentina gear up for World Cup final

Led by battle-hardened Lionel Messi, Argentina take on silky Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday in New Jersey as the first 48-team tournament in history reaches a finale.

The South Americans are trying to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups, while Spain are on the hunt for a second crown after their first in 2010.

Messi, regarded the best player of all time, is expected to play his last World Cup match in Sunday’s final.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni told spectators to savour watching the little genius lead his squad out at MetLife Stadium at the age of 39.He created history. “He is a legend,” said Scaloni of the former Barcelona star who helped Argentina win the World Cup in Qatar in 2022.



Spain have only let in one goal at the World Cup thus far.

The three-time champions have exhibited a remarkable never-say-die spirit in the 2026 campaign.

They produced a remarkable comeback from 2-0 down in the last moments of their last-16 match against Egypt and another dramatic comeback in the closing stages of their semi-final against England.

Spain, meanwhile, have been almost perfect, letting in a solitary goal in their seven matches thus far and brushing France aside in the semi-finals.

Spain captain Rodri said he expected a “physical” clash and would try to avoid any possible “provocations”.”It is going to be more physical and we have to be ready,” stated the midfielder. “But I think if there’s one thing we’re known for in this national team is that we know how to play different games depending on the moment.