The final between Argentina and Spain before kick-off has already entered the history of the World Cup

Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi (Image credit: Agencies) The 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain will make history before kick-off at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.It will be the first FIFA World Cup match to feature the top two teams in the world since the FIFA rankings were introduced in 1992, with Argentina entering the tournament as number one and Spain in second place.Argentina also reached their seventh FIFA World Cup final, equaling Brazil for the second most appearances in the title match.Only Germany played more in the round of 16.It is also Argentina’s first appearance in consecutive World Cup finals since 1986 and 1990.

Messi, Argentina chasing history

The final pits Lionel Messi against defending champions Argentina, with a Spanish side unbeaten in 37 games, which stretches back to the start of 2024.Spain are aiming to win their second FIFA World Cup after lifting the trophy in 2010. Meanwhile, Argentina are bidding to become the first men’s team to win back-to-back World Cup titles since Brazil in 1958 and 1962.Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expects an unforgettable match. “We’re going to see a great show on Sunday. Two great national teams – two super teams, in my opinion – very similar in some aspects in terms of attitude, the talent of the footballers. I think it will be an amazing final.”Sunday’s final will be Messi’s first game against Spain since Argentina beat the then world champions in a 2010 international friendly.The match will also see Messi share the field with Spain star Lamino Yamal, who was photographed with the Argentine legend as a child almost two decades ago.

Spain is chasing another record

Spain go into the final after one of the best defensive campaigns in World Cup history.La Roja conceded just one goal in seven games and didn’t concede a second during the tournament.If they win the title, they will better the defensive records set by Spain in 2010, Italy in 2006 and France in 1998, who all conceded just two goals in a World Cup victory.

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