Spain and Argentina meet in the 2026 men's World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday. Spain is seeking its second World Cup title, while Argentina aims for back-to-back championships.
Spain enters the final with a 37-match unbeaten run, matching an all-time world record. The team's only previous World Cup victory was in 2010. Coach Luis de la Fuente has integrated young talent like 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, who helped Spain win the 2024 Euro title.
Spain has conceded only one goal in seven tournament matches. Goalkeeper Unai Simón set a tournament record with 650 scoreless minutes. Forward Mikel Oyarzabal has scored five goals.
Argentina, the defending champion, is led by Lionel Messi. The 39-year-old is now the all-time leading scorer in men's World Cup history with 21 goals. He is tied for the tournament scoring lead with eight goals.
Key support for Messi comes from midfielder Enzo Fernández and forward Lautaro Martinez, who scored the stoppage-time winner in the semifinal. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, the reigning Golden Glove winner, anchors the defense.