The 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches its climax on Sunday as Argentina face Spain in the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The match could mark Lionel Messi’s final World Cup appearance, with the 39-year-old hoping to guide Argentina to back-to-back world titles. If successful, Argentina would become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to retain the FIFA World Cup.
Spain, meanwhile, are chasing only the second World Cup title in their history after lifting the trophy for the first time in 2010.
Global spotlight on the final
The championship match is expected to be watched by millions worldwide, with around 80,000 spectators set to fill MetLife Stadium.
Among those attending are US President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, meaning the leaders of all three host nations will be present.
The occasion will also feature the first-ever FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show, with performances by internationally renowned artists, making it one of the biggest sporting and entertainment events of the year.
Earlier concerns that smoke from Canadian wildfires could affect the match eased after clear weather prevailed over New Jersey on Sunday morning.
Argentina rely on experience and resilience
Argentina have impressed throughout the tournament with their determination and ability to recover from difficult situations.
The defending champions staged dramatic comebacks against Egypt in the Round of 16 and England in the semi-finals to book their place in the final.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni urged supporters to cherish the opportunity to watch Messi lead Argentina once again.
“He has made history. He is a legend,” Scaloni said while praising the veteran captain, who inspired Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph.
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Spain seek another historic triumph
Spain enter the final in outstanding form after conceding just one goal in seven matches during the tournament.
The European champions produced an impressive performance to defeat France in the semi-finals and have been praised for their disciplined team play.
Captain Rodri expects a physically demanding contest but believes Spain have the tactical flexibility to adapt to any challenge.
He said the team is prepared for a tough battle while remaining focused on its own style of football.
Much attention will also be on 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, who is widely regarded as one of football’s brightest young talents and a future global star.
Golden Boot race adds extra intrigue
The final also carries significance in the race for the Golden Boot.
France captain Kylian Mbappé, whose team secured third place after defeating England 6-4, currently leads the scoring chart with 10 goals, two ahead of Messi.
Mbappé also became the all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history with 22 goals, one more than Messi.
However, the Argentine captain has one final opportunity to close the gap and potentially reclaim the record while chasing another World Cup title.
With history, individual milestones and global pride all at stake, the Argentina-Spain showdown promises to be one of the most eagerly anticipated World Cup finals in recent memory.
