EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY — The age-old saying that everyone has a plan until they’re punched in the face does not apply to the 2026 World Cup champions, Spain.

Luis de la Fuente’s squad anticipated a fierce physical challenge from Argentina in Sunday’s World Cup Final in New Jersey, and they were prepared to respond with resilience.

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The defending champions, Argentina, had established a reputation for aggressive play throughout the tournament, overpowering England, Switzerland, and Egypt with their tough tactics. The Albiceleste averaged 12.29 fouls per game, ranking them as the most physical team among the semifinalists.

When faced with Argentina’s aggressive style, Spain resolutely declared: bring your best, and we’ll respond with ours.

Luis de la Fuente’s confident, assured Spain never blinked – By Nick Mendola

It became evident early on that La Roja intended to dominate the match with their possession-heavy playing style, showing no fear of Argentina’s hard challenges.

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Luis de la Fuente seemed to urge Argentina to play football in its finest form. Spain spread wide from the outset, often pushing both fullbacks up the pitch while leaving just two center backs near their 18-yard box.

This tactical approach was bolstered by the presence of Rodri, a Golden Ball winner, who controlled the midfield with remarkable skill, instilling confidence throughout the team.

While the victors are often celebrated, it’s worth noting that Spain appeared unflustered at any point during the tournament. They dominated the opening match against Cape Verde with a 0-0 draw before decisively defeating Saudi Arabia 4-0 and shutting out Uruguay, dark horse Austria, and confident Portugal.

Belgium remains the only team to score against Unai Simon in the tournament, while Spain successfully defended against Argentina for a full 120 minutes, despite Argentina’s offensive prowess, having scored two or more goals in every preceding match.

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Argentina fought aggressively throughout the match, continuing their approach until the final whistle. Analysis of their performance can be found below by my colleague Joe Prince-Wright.

Argentina took it too far and it will tarnish their legacy – By Joe Prince-Wright

Argentina disappointingly failed to showcase their skill on the grand stage. They registered no shots on goal during the World Cup final, overly preoccupied with fouls and physical confrontations, rather than focusing on the game to secure back-to-back World Cup titles.

The actions of several players detracted from the excitement of Lionel Messi’s remarkable farewell summer.

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Argentina recognized Spain as the superior team, a truth acknowledged by their manager, Lionel Scaloni, after the match.

From the opening whistle, Argentina played aggressively, testing the limits of acceptable play, while frequently voicing complaints about officiating. The referee allowed much leeway before correctly issuing a red card to Enzo Fernandez for a reckless challenge while already on a yellow card.

The aggressive behavior exhibited by Leandro Paredes and other Argentine players at the final whistle, instead of showing grace in defeat, casts a shadow on their legacy. This match will be remembered for the excessive aggression displayed by Argentina.

While the reigning champions fought tooth and nail to retain their trophy, there is an appropriate way to do so, which Argentina failed to maintain. They exhibited similar tactics in their semifinal victory over England and carried that approach into the final against Spain.

The referees permitted much of this behavior to go unchecked, allowing Argentina to push boundaries. Had the team focused more on playing skillfully rather than on roughhousing, they would have demonstrated their talented squad of world-class players. They proved their capability during the final 30 minutes against England.

However, their insistence on a physical game ultimately cost them the match.

While this Argentina team will be remembered for the brilliance of Messi and their triumphant World Cup victory, they will also be recalled for crossing the line and failing to uphold their standards in the final.