FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain's final WC training session cancelled due to thunderstorms
New York, July 18
Spain's final training session ahead of Sunday's FIFA World Cup final against Argentina was cancelled on Saturday due to thunderstorms, tournament organisers FIFA confirmed.
FIFA added that no alternative training slot would be arranged for Spain but did not clarify whether Argentina's scheduled session later in the day would go ahead as planned, as per Reuters.
"The Spanish national team's training session on the pitches at the Melanie Lane Training Ground in New Jersey has been suspended in accordance with the US storm safety protocol," the Spanish federation (RFEF) said in a statement.
"The players are currently taking part in a warm-up session indoors."
Spain, the reigning European champions, are aiming for their first FIFA World Cup crown since 2010, while Lionel Messi's Argentina seek back-to-back titles.
Defending champions Argentina secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over England in the semifinal, overturning a first-half deficit with Enzo Fernandez scoring the equaliser before Lautaro Martinez netted the stoppage-time winner to send the defending champions into the title clash against Spain.
The win over England sent Argentina into the World Cup 2026 final, while England's hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966 came to a heartbreaking end.
Spain, on the other hand, secured a place in the FIFA World Cup final for the first time since their 2010 triumph after defeating France 2-0 with a composed performance.
Lamine Yamal played a key role in the win, winning a penalty after dispossessing Lucas Digne, which Mikel Oyarzabal converted in the 22nd minute to give Spain the lead. Pedro Porro doubled Spain's advantage after the break following a fine move with Dani Olmo, while France struggled to create clear chances.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a neutral fan, this cancellation is a shame—players need those final tactical drills. But Spain's 2010-style control and Argentina's fightback spirit (that 2-1 win over England was insane!) make this final mouthwatering. Messi vs. Yamal: generational clash!
India mein bhi aise matches ke liye hum pagal ho jaate hain! 😄 Spain's defense has been rock solid, but Argentina's never-say-die attitude—especially after that England comeback—is scary. Only worry: if Argentina's training also gets cancelled, will they be rusty? Fingers crossed for a classic final!
Respect to FIFA for prioritizing player safety with the storm protocol. That said, it's a bit unfair that Spain lost their slot entirely while Argentina's session is still pending. Tactical edge or just bad luck? Either way, Sunday will decide who adapts better without full prep.
Spain ka form dekh ke toh lag raha hai 2010 repeat hoga! 💪 That 2-0 win over France was clinical—Yamal winning penalties like a veteran. But Argentina's hunger after that England thriller is scary. Hope the weather doesn't ruin the final spectacle. Sab kuch dekhne ke liye taiyaar hoon! 🇮🇳⚽
I get the safety concerns—thunderstorms are no joke—but cancelling the entire session without a backup seems harsh. Spain's rhythm might be disrupted. Argentina's players are probably chilling while Spain's indoors warming up. Little things like this can decide finals
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