The encounter will also feature an interesting coaching rivalry as Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente faces his former student and Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni in the World Cup final.
Argentina have reached their second consecutive World Cup final under Scaloni’s leadership. The defending champions secured their place in the final after overcoming Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland, and England in the knockout stages.
Lionel Messi, now 39, has once again played a crucial role throughout the tournament, contributing with goals, assists, and match-defining performances to guide Argentina towards another title opportunity.
On the other hand, European champions Spain enter the final in outstanding form. The Spanish team is unbeaten in 37 consecutive international matches and has impressed under coach Luis de la Fuente with their possession-based football, quick passing style, and disciplined defensive structure.
In 2007, Lionel Messi posed with a six-month-old Lamine Yamal during a charity photoshoot.
— CNBC-TV18 (@CNBCTV18News) July 17, 2026
Now, nearly two decades later, they re set to face each other in a FIFA World Cup final. 🌍🏆
Matthew Thomas tells the remarkable story behind one of football s most iconic photos.… pic.twitter.com/gghLrmgXnv
One of the biggest attractions of the final will be Spain’s teenage winger Lamine Yamal. The 19-year-old has gained global attention with his exceptional talent and performances at a young age. Many football fans and analysts have compared his rise with Lionel Messi’s legendary journey from Barcelona’s famed academy, La Masia.
The coaching battle adds another layer of excitement to the final. Lionel Scaloni previously worked under Luis de la Fuente during a Spanish Football Federation coaching course. Years later, the two coaches will now compete against each other for football’s most prestigious trophy.
The final will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where pitch conditions and hot, humid weather are expected to influence the game. Football experts believe Spain could have an advantage if they successfully impose their traditional passing style, while Argentina may look to turn the match into a physical and intense contest.
All eyes will once again be on Lionel Messi, who could be playing his final World Cup match. The Argentine superstar will aim to secure another world title and create a memorable ending to his extraordinary career.
Meanwhile, Spain are determined to win their second World Cup trophy and transform their unbeaten campaign into one of the greatest achievements in their football history.
