Spain and Argentina meet in the World Cup final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with both nations seeking to etch their names in football history. The European champions face the defending world champions in a clash of styles, experience, and ambition as the tournament's ultimate prize hangs in the balance. Follow our liveblog for minute-by-minute commentary.
Expected lineups for Spain-Argentina Spain: Simon - Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella - Rodri (c), Ruiz - Yamal, Olmo, Baena - Oyarzabal Argentina: E. Martinez - Montiel, Romero, Li. Martinez, Tagliafico - De Paul, Fernandez, Mac Allister, Gonzalez - Messi (c), Alvarez.
Spain arrive as reigning European champions, seeking to replicate the extraordinary achievements of their golden generation by winning a second Euro-World Cup double sixteen years after their 2008-2010 feat. The Roja have showcased commanding possession-based football throughout this tournament, controlling matches through their midfield superiority and collective organisation. Their ability to dictate tempo and starve opponents of the ball has proven devastatingly effective, culminating in their semi-final demolition of France. Read moreWorld Cup 2026: Spanish control meets Argentinian resilience in final showdown Argentina come as defending World Cup champions, bidding to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups. The Albiceleste have displayed pragmatism and defensive resilience despite being tested repeatedly in the knockout stages. Lionel Messi leads the charge, pursuing both a second World Cup crown and potentially reclaiming the all-time goalscoring record from Kylian Mbappé, who currently stands at 22 goals.
