FIFA World Cup 2026 Final : Argentina vs Spain Preview, Team News, Predicted Lineups & Prediction
Argentina vs Spain: Predicted Lineups, Team News & Injury Update for FIFA World Cup 2026 Final
The stage is set for an unforgettable FIFA World Cup 2026 Final as reigning champions Argentina face an in-form Spain at MetLife Stadium on Sunday. Lionel Scaloni's side are chasing back-to-back World Cup titles, while Spain aim to reclaim football's biggest prize with a talented squad blending experienced stars and exciting young players.
With both teams close to full strength, the final is expected to feature some of the world's best footballers, including Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, Rodri, Julian Alvarez and Dani Olmo.
Argentina Team News
Argentina secured their place in the World Cup final after a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in the semi-finals. Lionel Messi once again proved decisive, providing assists for Lautaro Martinez and Enzo Fernandez as the defending champions overturned a first-half deficit.
Lionel Scaloni is expected to make two changes to the starting lineup for the final. Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul is likely to return after an influential substitute appearance against England, replacing Giuliano Simeone in midfield.
Another possible alteration comes at right-back, where Gonzalo Montiel could replace Nahuel Molina. Montiel's experience in high-pressure matches, including the 2022 World Cup final, may convince Scaloni to hand him the starting role.
Despite Lautaro Martinez scoring the winner in the semi-final, Julian Alvarez is still expected to partner Lionel Messi in attack, with Lautaro providing impact from the bench if required.
Argentina Predicted XI
Formation: 4-4-2
Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez
Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico
Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister
Forwards: Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez
Argentina Injury Update
Argentina have received a major boost ahead of the final, with no significant injury or suspension concerns.
Cristian Romero and Leandro Paredes, who had minor fitness concerns earlier in the tournament, are both expected to be fully available. Lionel Scaloni should therefore have his strongest squad available as Argentina look to retain the World Cup trophy.
Spain Team News
Spain reached the final after a commanding 2-0 victory over France, producing one of their most complete performances of the tournament.
There were brief concerns over Lamine Yamal, who appeared to be limping after receiving a heavy challenge in the semi-final. However, head coach Luis de la Fuente quickly dismissed fears of a serious injury, and the teenage sensation is expected to start against Argentina.
Spain are likely to name an unchanged starting XI after their dominant display against France. The midfield partnership of Rodri and Fabian Ruiz controlled possession brilliantly, while Dani Olmo, Alex Baena and Yamal consistently threatened in attack.
Although Nico Williams has recovered from injury, Alex Baena is expected to keep his place on the left wing following another impressive performance.
Right-back Pedro Porro also suffered a minor muscle strain during the semi-final but is expected to recover in time for Sunday's showdown.
Spain Predicted XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper: Unai Simon
Defenders: Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella
Midfielders: Rodri, Fabian Ruiz
Attacking Midfielders: Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Alex Baena
Forward: Mikel Oyarzabal
Spain Injury Update
Spain head into the World Cup final with an almost fully fit squad.
Lamine Yamal: Expected to start after recovering from a minor knock.
Pedro Porro: Minor muscle issue but likely to be fit.
Nico Williams: Fully available and provides an excellent option from the bench.
No suspensions have been reported.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Argentina (4-4-2)
Emiliano Martinez; Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister; Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez.
Spain (4-2-3-1)
Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Alex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal.
Final Preview
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Final promises to be a captivating battle between Argentina's experience and Spain's dynamic, possession-based style. Lionel Messi will be aiming to guide Argentina to a historic second consecutive World Cup title, while Spain's new generation, led by Lamine Yamal and Rodri, seeks to usher in a new era of international dominance.
With both squads boasting world-class quality and very few injury concerns, fans can expect an intense tactical contest that could become one of the greatest World Cup finals in modern football history.
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