Molina, De Paul Decisions Loom as Scaloni Shapes Argentina's World Cup Final XI

Lionel Scaloni is reportedly weighing two changes to Argentina’s lineup for Sunday’s 2026 World Cup final against Spain at the New York New Jersey Stadium, with the starting XI not expected to be confirmed until midday. Journalist Gaston Edul reports Nahuel Molina is facing a genuine right-back challenge from Gonzalo Montiel. Molina has started all four of Argentina’s knockout matches but has been substituted in each, a pattern Scaloni may now reconsider. The back line is otherwise expected to remain Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Nicolas Tagliafico.

In midfield, Rodrigo De Paul is pushing for a return after being dropped for Giuliano Simeone in the semi-final. Simeone offered more direct attacking energy, while De Paul could provide greater control and pressing against Spain’s double pivot of Rodri and Fabian Ruiz. The tactical battle between Rodri and Fabian Ruiz is widely viewed as key. A Sunday win would make Argentina the first team to retain the World Cup since Brazil in 1962.