The final match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 has begun at the New Jersey Stadium in New York, USA. The defending champions Argentina are facing Spain. Spain has reached the final for the first time since 2010, aiming to become world champions for the second time. Argentina, seeking to win the World Cup consecutively for the second time, secured their spot in the final after remarkable comebacks in challenging knockout stage matches.
European champions Spain secured their place in the final by effectively controlling the tournament’s strong contender France in the semifinals. Known for their prolonged ball possession and precise finishing, Spain has emerged as the most balanced team in the competition. However, their start in Group H was not smooth. A goalless draw against Cape Verde surprised many, but they then defeated Saudi Arabia 4-0 and Uruguay 1-0 to finish as group winners.
In the subsequent rounds, Spain defeated Austria 3-0 in the round of 32, overcame Portugal in the round of 16, and beat Belgium in the quarterfinals thanks to decisive goals by Mikel Merino. Throughout the tournament, Spain has conceded only one goal. After reaching the World Cup final for the first time since 2010, Spain aims to win their second world championship.
Copa America champions and defending World Cup holders Argentina had a much tougher journey compared to Spain. Under the captaincy of Messi, Argentina won all three group stage matches. Messi’s hat-trick against Algeria, two goals versus Austria, and strong performance against Jordan secured their success in the group stage. However, Argentina faced struggles in every knockout match.
In the round of 32, Argentina defeated Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time. In the round of 16, they made a historic comeback against Egypt after trailing 2-0 by scoring late goals. They defeated Switzerland in extra time in the quarterfinals and similarly came from behind to beat England in the semifinals to ensure their place in the final. Anthony Gordon’s goal had put England ahead, but goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez sealed Argentina’s second consecutive final appearance. Argentina steps onto the field with the goal of winning back-to-back World Cups.
