Argentina head into the 2026 World Cup final against Spain with history within striking distance, with Lionel Scaloni’s side standing one goal away from setting a new tournament record for strikes from outside the penalty area.The defending champions scored five goals from outside the penalty area, equaling the highest number scored by any team in a single FIFA World Cup tournament.
Lionel Messi has contributed two of these long-range efforts, while Giovani Lo Celso, Julian Alvarez and Enzo Fernandes have one each. Messi also surpassed Brazilian legend Rivelino to become the player who scored the most goals in the World Cup from outside the penalty area.Now, Argentina have a chance to live up to that record when they face Euro 2024 champions Spain in Sunday’s final at New York, New Jersey.Argentina booked its place in the title race with a thrilling 2-1 victory over England in the semi-finals. After falling behind in the second half, Enzo Fernandes restored parity before Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in stoppage time to send the defending champions to the World Cup final for the second time in a row.Meanwhile, Spain reached the World Cup final for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2010 after an easy 2-0 win over France.
Mikel Oyarzabal’s penalty was converted by Lamine Yamal before Pedro Porro settled the scoreline after half-time, as Spain’s disciplined defense recorded their sixth clean sheet in seven matches.Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expects an entertaining confrontation, describing the final as a “difficult match” between two teams that share a similar philosophy built on quality, talent and attacking football.Scaloni reiterated this respect, insisting that Argentina must present its “best version” to retain the title. The Argentina coach also paid tribute to Messi’s remarkable longevity, saying the 39-year-old’s journey to another World Cup final adds another exceptional chapter to the legacy of one of the greatest footballers of all time.With the trophy and a unique World Cup record at stake, Argentina have every reason to believe history can be made again.