Argentina's Lionel Messi arrives at the stadium before the FIFA World Cup final against Spain, on July 19, 2026
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Imagn Images via REUTERS
Lionel Messi’s Argentina takes on Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at the New Jersey stadium on July 19, 2026.Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni made three changes from the side who came from behind to beat England in the semi-finals, while Luis de la Fuente named an unchanged Spain team.ALSO READ | Once in his arms, now in his way: Lamine Yamal, Lionel Messi and a date with destinyLamine Yamal plays up front for Spain after missing training this week following a knock in the semi-final win over France.Reigning champion Argentina is looking to win a 4th world title, while the European champion Spain will be hoping to win it after 16 years. Follow live updates here:July 20, 2026 00:05 A battle between master and pupilFIFA World Cup 2026 final: A battle between master and pupilThe FIFA World Cup 2026 final features a heartfelt clash between mentor and pupil, de la Fuente and Scaloni.July 20, 2026 00:02 Preview: Spain, Argentina lock horns in a fascinating finaleThere is more than one way to become a World champion. Spain has spent the past month trying to ensure football unfolds exactly as it imagines, while Argentina has proved that even when football refuses to cooperate, victory can still be found.FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain, Argentina lock horns in a fascinating finaleSpain and Argentina clash in the thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup final, showcasing contrasting paths to glory and generational talent.July 20, 2026 00:01 Welcome to The Hindu's live coverageHello and welcome to The HIndu’s live coverage of the Final of the World Cup. This is a Final that is inarguably between two of the best teams in the tournament so far. Argentina has won all of its seven games it has played so far while Spain drew its first game against unheralded Cape Verde but went on to win the rest of the matches it played.July 19, 2026 23:15 Lineups announcedLineups are announced and players are warming up.Spain: Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri (captain), Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Alex Baena, Mikel Oyarzabal.Argentina: Emiliano Martinez; Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Nicolas Gonzalez; Lionel Messi (captain), Julian Alvarez. Published - July 19, 2026 11:57 pm IST
