World Cup holders Argentina will meet reigning European champions Spain in a blockbuster final in New Jersey on Sunday night, with England agonisingly missing out09:46, 17 Jul 2026Updated 09:46, 17 Jul 2026This is the dream final that FIFA wanted all along.‌World champions Argentina, the team ranked first in the world, against the European champions Spain who are second in the FIFA rankings.‌From the moment that FIFA mapped out this World Cup on a tennis-style draw, these two nations were put on a collision course to meet in the final in the MetLife Stadium on Sunday.‌It is rare in sport - never mind just football - that things work out as planned and both teams have had major scares along the way.But, ultimately, they made it and this game will also give us Lionel Messi against Lamine Yamal. The greatest of all time against Spain’s young superstar.It is a stage fit for a king and it feels fitting for Messi because this could be his last game for Argentina. It will be his 207th game and he has scored 126 goals.‌Messi, even at the age of 39, is still Argentina’ most important player, still their focal point and still their inspiration.Four years ago, we thought it might be Messi’s farewell when Argentina beat France on penalties after arguably the greatest final of all time.But, here we are, in the summer of 2026 and there could be another glorious chapter for Messi as he looks to lead Argentina to becoming the first nation to win back-to-back World Cups since Brazil in 1962.‌Messi has taken up walking football in this tournament. But when they have needed him, Messi has stepped up for Argentina. It was Messi who led the fightback to overcome Egypt. And then he helped break English hearts in their semi final in Atlanta.But Spain do have one hell of an advantage. They have an extra 24 hours to recover and prepare. That might not seem a big deal but, in this climate and sweltering conditions, it can be huge.‌Spain won the Euros two years ago by beating England in the final and now, two years on, they are back in the World Cup final after destroying France in their semi final.They completely overwhelmed Kylian Mbappe and Co largely because their midfield - Rodri, Dani Olmo and Fabian Ruiz - ran the game.‌Spain must be favourites. They have more quality, more youth and energy on their side. But, as England discovered, you write off Argentina at your peril. They never know when they are beaten.This has all the makings of a classic. And the chance for a fairytale farewell for Messi, the greatest of all time. It has been a fantastic World Cup on the pitch - and this is a great way to sign off.Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Article continues belowContent cannot be displayed without consent