FIFA WC: Argentina chase history against Spain's defensive wall (Preview)
New York, July 19
The biggest-ever FIFA World Cup is coming to a thrilling end with two of the best sides of the tournament, Argentina and Spain, both chasing a different record to face each other in the final showdown of football's biggest event at the MetLife Stadium on Monday.
While more than 22 players will play for glory among thousands of fans, the focus will again be on the Messiah of Argentina and one of the greatest ever to play the game, Lionel Messi, who is willing to give his all to repeat the magic he created four years ago when Argentina won the FIFA WC 2022 in Qatar against France.
After 1310 days, things have not changed, as the captain is again leading from the front with 8 goals and 4 crucial assists, guiding Argentina to reach the final remaining unbeaten. Currently aged 39, Messi will likely make this his last dance on the biggest stage of football, and he will look to give his career a happy ending and help Argentina become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend their title.
Standing in his way is a 19-year-old boy, Lamine Yamal, with whom Messi clicked a photo in 2007, holding him in his arms while bathing him; little did he know at that time that the boy would be one of the obstacles standing between him and another World Cup glory.
Apart from Yamal, Spain's defensive wall also stands in the way. Rodri's side has given very few opportunities to the opponents throughout the tournament. The stats also prove their brilliance as the side has conceded only one goal so far, and their defensive technique and unity have played a big role in their unbeaten run to the Final.
While Mikel Oyarzabal has emerged as the team's leading scorer with five goals, teenage sensation Yamal has dazzled on the wings, and captain Rodri has controlled the midfield. Spain last won the World Cup in 2010, and they would look to end the 16-year wait and also become the seventh team to win two trophies in FIFA World Cup history.
Spain vs Argentina match is also a battle of two techniques, with Luis De Fluente's side opting for a tiki-taka style with some adaptations of attacking a bit more than before while maintaining possession to frustrate the opponent's strikers as they did against France. On the other hand, Lionel Scaloni's side is focused on playing ruthless football and creating continuous opportunities, and also disturbing the opposition's defence with tackles and creating spaces.
Key details
Date and kick-off time: Monday, July 20, 12:30 AM IST
Venue: MetLife Stadium, New York.
Referee: Slavko Vincic
Live Streaming: FIFA WC 2026 Final will be live-streamed on Zee5 app and website in different languages. While the live telecast will be on United8 Sports different channels.
Spain -
Goalkeepers: Unai Simon, David Raya, Joan Garcia
Defenders: Pedro Porro, Marcos Llorente, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsi, Marc Pubill, Eric Garcia, Marc Cucurella, Alejandro Grimaldo
Midfielders: Rodrigo Hernandez, Martin Zubimendi, Pedri Gonzalez, Fabian Ruiz, Mikel Merino, Pablo Paez 'Gavi', Alex Baena
Forwards: Mikel Oyarzabal, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Borja Iglesias, Dani Olmo, Victor Munoz, Nico Williams, Yeremy Pin
Argentina-
Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez, Geronimo Rulli, Juan Musso
Defenders: Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolas Otamendi, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolas Tagliafico, Facundo Medina
Midfielders: Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, Giovani Lo Celso, Exequiel Palacios, Enzo Fernandez, Valentin Barco
Forwards: Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez, Thiago Almada, Nicolas Paz, Nicolas Gonzalez, Giuliano Simeone, Jose Manuel
— IANS
Reader Comments
I'm actually rooting for Spain here. Their tiki-taka style is a masterclass in patience and control. And Yamal at 19—Messi held him as a baby and now he might stop Messi's dream? That's cinema-level storytelling. Should be a great match, but Spain's defense is just too good.
Argentina's approach of "ruthless football" and creating chaos in defense is what I love—we need that aggression in Indian football too! 🇮🇳 But seriously, after watching Messi in 2022, I can't bet against him. The man finds a way. Argentina 2-1 Spain, Messi scores the winner. Book it.
Not to be that person, but can we talk about how both teams basically have zero weaknesses? Spain's possession game is frustrating, and Argentina's attack is relentless. This is going to be a chess match. I just hope the referee doesn't ruin it—Slavko Vincic has had some controversial moments. 🤞
Barcelona fans must be torn! Watching Messi vs Yamal, both La Masia products. 😅 Personally, I think Spain's defensive record is overrated—they haven't faced a team like Argentina yet. Lautaro Martinez and Alvarez will find gaps. Vamos Argentina! 🇦🇷
I respect Messi's legacy, but I have to say—Spain's teamwork is something else. Rodri as captain has been phenomenal, and that midfield control is a joy to watch. Also, India should take notes on how
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.