The 2026 World Cup final is confirmed, with Spain set to face Argentina after Spain’s victory over France on Tuesday and Argentina’s comeback win against England on Wednesday.

As preparations ramp up for Sunday’s title clash, attention turns to the third-place match, where France will take on England this Saturday.

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Argentina vs. Spain

3 p.m. ET | Sunday, July 19 | East Rutherford, New Jersey | TV: Fox

Argentina Aims for History

Argentina stands just one win away from becoming the first team since Brazil in 1958 and 1962 to win consecutive World Cups, marking a potential fourth consecutive major tournament victory. Argentina secured the Copa América in 2021, giving Lionel Messi his first major international title. The team later triumphed in last year’s World Cup, defeating France in a penalty shootout.

Two years after their first World Cup win in 26 years, Argentina also clinched the Copa América by beating Colombia.

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Already considered one of the greatest soccer players in history, a fourth consecutive major tournament title and a second consecutive World Cup will further solidify Messi’s legacy, despite ongoing debates about the greatest of all time, with comparisons to Pelé being a frequent topic.

Spain Simply Doesn’t Give Up Goals

Scoring against the Spanish team has proven to be a formidable challenge. Spain has allowed only one goal in their seven World Cup matches, with that lone goal coming during a 2-1 quarterfinal win against Belgium.

In the semifinals, Spain showcased its ability to control possession, restricting France—who boasts some of the world’s top attackers—from launching sustained attacks and capitalizing on counterattacks.

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While Argentina presents a different challenge than France, Spain has yet to demonstrate vulnerability in this tournament.

Can Argentina Continue Its Run of Comebacks?

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente likely noted Argentina’s aggressive response after England took the lead in their semifinal, showcasing a trend of needing late goals throughout the knockout rounds. Argentina has become adept at handling high-pressure situations, leading to questions about whether they still experience nerves in the closing moments of games.

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However, if Argentina finds themselves in need of a late goal on Sunday, breaking down Spain’s defense presents a different challenge. England struggled to advance, primarily relying on counterattacks, but Spain is expected to maintain possession and control the game’s tempo. Argentina’s ability to press for turnovers will be crucial.

Are We in for a Patient Game?

Argentina’s semifinal against England saw over 30 minutes elapse without an official shot, suggesting that a similarly cautious approach might be on the horizon for Sunday?

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Both teams have a methodical style. Argentina is known to reduce its intensity at times, while Spain’s possession-based strategy can draw the game out. It may take a while for the first goal to materialize; Argentina might even choose to hold back while waiting for an opportunity to unleash Messi on a counterattack, minimizing Lamine Yamal’s chances of exploiting the wing.

Spain, meanwhile, appears well-equipped to limit Messi’s influence in dangerous areas. Rodri is again performing as one of the world’s top defensive midfielders and will play a vital role in neutralizing threats in the midfield.

In the second half against England, both of Argentina’s goals emerged with Messi positioned on the right. There is speculation about whether he might be utilized more on the flanks to facilitate playmaking instead of solely finishing chances.