Key Takeaways
- Argentina and Spain will compete for the World Cup title on Sunday.
- The match is part of the first 48-team tournament in history.
- Lionel Messi, considered one of the greatest players ever, leads Argentina.
In a historic showdown, Lionel Messi and his battle-hardened Argentina team will face Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. The match marks the culmination of the first 48-team tournament in history, with both teams aiming to secure their place in footballing lore.
Argentina, three-time champions, have shown remarkable resilience throughout the 2026 tournament. They recovered from a 2-0 deficit against Egypt in the last 16 and mounted another dramatic comeback in the final minutes of their semi-final against England. Their coach Lionel Scaloni has urged fans to make the most of seeing Messi lead out his team at the age of 39, calling him 'a legend' who has made history.
Spain, on the other hand, have been almost flawless, conceding just a single goal in their seven matches so far. They swept past France in the semi-finals and are bracing for a 'physical' battle against Argentina's diminutive genius. Captain Rodri emphasized the team’s adaptability: 'We must be prepared for a more physical one, but we know how to play different games based on the moment.'
The final will also see the presence of US President Donald Trump and leaders from Mexico and Canada, marking the first game he has attended in the tournament. A galaxy of stars is set to perform, including Tom Cruise in the pre-game closing ceremony and Madonna and Shakira in the half-time show – the first such performances in World Cup history.
Kylian Mbappe, who became the competition's all-time leading scorer with 22 goals, will be vying for the Golden Boot against Messi. The French star is on 10 goals for the tournament, two ahead of Messi. With both players aiming to reclaim the record, the final promises a thrilling encounter.
The match is likely to be the final World Cup appearance for Messi, who helped Argentina win in Qatar in 2022 and has been instrumental throughout this tournament. His presence alone makes the game a spectacle, with fans from around the world tuning in to witness his last hurrah on the biggest stage.
As the sun sets over New Jersey, anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable night of football. The final match will not only decide the World Cup champion but also cement Messi's legacy as one of the greatest players ever.
He has made history. He is a legend.
Lionel Scaloni, Argentina coach
It will be a more physical one, and we must be prepared.
Rodri, Spain captain
