NEW DELHI: History will be at stake when Argentina take on Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at the New Jersey Stadium on Sunday. Argentina are aiming to become the first men’s team in 64 years to win back-to-back FIFA World Cup titles, after lifting the trophy in 2022.
Only two countries had achieved this feat before – Italy (1934 and 1938) and Brazil (1958 and 1962).Meanwhile, Spain are bidding for their second World Cup title after winning in 2010. They head to the final after an astonishing 37-game unbeaten run stretching back to early 2024.Overall, Argentina won six matches, drew two and lost six matches to Spain in all competitions. Their only competitive victory came in the group stage of the 1966 World Cup, where they won 2–1.
Messi vs Spain: The story comes full circle
The final also brings together Lionel Messi and a country that played a major role in his career. Messi was born in Argentina, and spent part of his childhood and most of his playing career in Spain. He was eligible to represent Spain internationally, but always chose Argentina.Sunday’s final will be his first match against Spain since a friendly match in 2010, when Argentina beat the then world champions.The match will also bring together Messi and Spanish star Lamine Yamal, who appeared together in a photo when Yamal was a child.
Despite the occasion, Messi said that his style has not changed.“We grew up playing football with passion, eager to play. We played everywhere. We played in the street. We played in school. We played with teams. We didn’t think about the pressure. It was just natural play.”Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni particularly praised his team’s captain.“The best football player the world has ever seen.”Scaloni later added: “It’s pure history.
date. legend.”
Spain is ready for its biggest test
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente believes the final will be a contest between two distinguished teams.“On Sunday, we will see a fantastic display. Two great national teams – two great teams, in my opinion – very similar in some aspects in terms of attitudes and the talent of the footballers. I think it will be an amazing final.”The Spain captain also warned Rodri not to focus on Messi only.“Argentina is much better than Messi. They have proven to be a very complete team with top players. … We are the two best teams that play collectively as a group. Of course, we have to keep in mind Leo, but many other players.”
