The 2026 World Cup reaches its climax on Sunday evening as Spain and Argentina meet at MetLife Stadium with football’s greatest prize on the line.

Spain arrive in New Jersey chasing a second World Cup title and looking to complete a remarkable double after lifting the European Championship two years ago. Standing in their way are the defending champions, with Argentina aiming to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup.

It is a meeting between the tournament’s best defence and its most prolific attack, making this one of the most intriguing World Cup finals in recent memory.

Spain

Spain have looked like the tournament’s outstanding side from the opening knockout round. Luis de la Fuente’s men recovered superbly from an early stumble against Cape Verde to win six consecutive matches, conceding just once during that run. Their defensive organisation has been the foundation of their success, with opponents repeatedly finding it almost impossible to create meaningful chances.

That was demonstrated perfectly in the semi-final against France. Despite facing one of the most feared attacking units in world football, Spain completely controlled proceedings, limiting Les Bleus to very little while deservedly progressing through goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro.

Rodri and Fabian Ruiz continue to dictate games from midfield, while Lamine Yamal has provided moments of brilliance throughout the tournament despite attracting constant defensive attention.

The Barcelona teenager is expected to be fit after concerns following the semi-final quickly subsided, and De la Fuente has little reason to alter a side that has impressed at both ends of the pitch.

Spain now stand on the brink of history. Victory would extend their extraordinary unbeaten run to 38 matches and deliver the country’s first World Cup triumph since 2010.

Argentina

If Spain have built their campaign on defensive excellence, Argentina have simply overwhelmed opponents with relentless attacking quality.

The reigning world champions have scored 19 goals during the tournament, more than any other nation, and have found the net at least twice in every match despite keeping just one clean sheet in the knockout rounds.

Their semi-final against England perfectly summed up Argentina’s character. After falling behind to Anthony Gordon’s opener, Lionel Scaloni’s side never panicked. Lionel Messi gradually took control of the contest, producing two decisive assists as Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez completed another memorable comeback.

Messi has once again reminded the football world why he remains capable of deciding the biggest occasions, while Julian Alvarez continues to provide the movement and energy that perfectly complements his captain.

Scaloni has a fully fit squad available and may make minor adjustments in the wide areas after Wednesday’s victory, but wholesale changes are unlikely ahead of the biggest match of the tournament.

Argentina are now one victory away from retaining the World Cup and further strengthening the legacy of a generation that has already lifted two Copa América titles and the 2022 World Cup.

Verdict

This final promises to be a fascinating clash of contrasting styles. Argentina possess the tournament’s most dangerous attack and have repeatedly shown their ability to recover from adversity, but they have also looked vulnerable defensively throughout the knockout rounds.

Spain appear to be the more complete side. Their defensive structure has frustrated every opponent they have faced, while their midfield continues to control matches with remarkable consistency. If they can prevent Messi from dictating the tempo, the European champions should create enough opportunities to edge a tightly contested final.

Tip

Spain to win the World Cup.

Argentina’s champions have demonstrated tremendous resilience throughout the tournament, but Spain have been the most balanced team from start to finish and look well placed to lift football’s biggest prize for the second time in their history.