Messi eyes history as Spain stand in Argentina's way in World Cup final
Spain and defending champions Argentina will battle for football's biggest prize in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with both nations aiming to make history.
Argentina are seeking a fourth World Cup title and could become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the trophy. A victory would also make Lionel Scaloni's side only the third nation to win consecutive World Cups after Italy and Brazil.
Spain, meanwhile, are chasing a second world title after lifting the trophy in 2010 and arrive unbeaten after an impressive run through the tournament.
Contrasting journeys to the final
Spain recovered from a slow start, opening the tournament with a goalless draw against Cape Verde before finishing top of their group with victories over Saudi Arabia and Uruguay.
La Roja then eliminated Austria, Portugal, Belgium and France, relying on disciplined defending, late goals and standout performances from Mikel Oyarzabal, Mikel Merino and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Argentina's route proved far more dramatic. After cruising through the group stage behind Lionel Messi's goals, the defending champions survived extra time against Cape Verde before producing remarkable comeback victories over Egypt and England.
Messi has once again led Argentina's charge, keeping alive hopes of ending his World Cup career with consecutive titles.
Rivalry perfectly balanced
The finalists enter the showdown with an almost identical historical record.
Spain and Argentina have met 14 times, with each side winning six matches, while two encounters ended in draws.
Their only previous World Cup meeting came in 1966, when Argentina defeated Spain 2-1 in the group stage.
England seek consolation against France
Before Sunday's final, England and France will meet in the World Cup third-place play-off, with both sides looking to finish the tournament on a high.
The match carries added significance for England manager Thomas Tuchel, who has faced intense criticism following his side's semifinal defeat to Argentina.
Despite leading against the defending champions, England conceded twice late in the match, prompting scrutiny of Tuchel's tactical decisions and substitutions.
Victory over top-ranked France would give England their best World Cup finish since lifting the trophy in 1966 and could ease pressure on the German coach ahead of a crucial run of fixtures later this year.
France, beaten by Spain in the semifinals, will also be determined to end their campaign with a podium finish in what promises to be another high-profile European showdown before the World Cup final.
Source:AA
