https://heraldamerica.com/sports/argentina-and-spain-are-set-to-meet-in-the-2026-fifa-world-cup-final-on-sunday-in-a-historic-showdown-that-pits-the-reigning-world-champions-and-copa-america-winners-against-the-current-european-champ/Herald Americaen2026-07-19T08:49:23+00:00Argentina and Spain are set to meet in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday in a historic showdown that pits the reigning world champions and Copa América winners against the current European champions. The title decider at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, will mark the first time the holders of the World Cup and Copa América face the reigning UEFA European Championship winners in a World Cup final. The match is expected to feature a compelling battle between Argentina captain Lionel Messi and Spain midfielder Rodri, two of football’s most influential figures. Argentina are aiming to retain the World Cup, a feat not achieved since Brazil successfully defended the title in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Victory would also secure a fourth World Cup crown for La Albiceleste and see Messi appear in his third World Cup final, matching a record previously achieved only by Brazilian great Cafu. Spain, meanwhile, are seeking their second World Cup title, 16 years after lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010. Under coach Luis de la Fuente, the Spanish side has impressed with disciplined defending and controlled possession throughout the tournament. The two finalists have taken contrasting routes to the championship match. Spain defeated France 2-0 in the semi-finals through goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro, extending their reputation as one of the tournament’s most organised teams. Argentina’s path was far more dramatic. Lionel Scaloni’s side trailed England until the closing stages of their semi-final before Enzo Fernández equalised in the 85th minute. Lautaro Martínez then scored the winner deep into stoppage time after a decisive assist from Messi. Statistics also highlight the difference in styles between the finalists. Argentina enter the match as the tournament’s highest-scoring team with 19 goals, while Spain boast the strongest defensive record after conceding only one goal throughout the competition. Spain have received a fitness boost despite concerns over teenage star Lamine Yamal, who missed part of training after suffering a knock in the semi-final against France. Reports suggest the injury is not considered serious, and the Barcelona winger is expected to be available for the final. De la Fuente is expected to retain the lineup that guided Spain into the final, with Unai Simón in goal, Rodri and Fabián Ruiz controlling midfield, and Oyarzabal leading the attack alongside Dani Olmo, Álex Baena and Yamal. Scaloni is also likely to stick with his trusted core, featuring goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, defenders Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez, midfielders Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister, while Messi is expected to partner Julián Álvarez in attack. FIFA has appointed experienced Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić to officiate the final. The 46-year-old previously handled the 2024 UEFA Champions League final and has overseen three matches during this World Cup. 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