Spain vs Argentina World Cup 2026 final preview: Prediction, team news & line-ups

Spain vs Argentina World Cup 2026 final preview sets up a historic matchup at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with Spain and Argentina meeting in the final on Sunday, July 19. It is the first time the reigning European champions face the current Copa America holders in the title match. The preview highlights contrasting storylines: Spain’s bid for a second World Cup trophy since 2010 and Argentina’s attempt to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back titles. Their head-to-head is framed as balanced over 14 encounters, but Spain’s recent results include three wins in four meetings in the 21st century. Spain are also described as entering on an unbeaten run in regulation time reaching 37 matches and having conceded once in the tournament, after six clean sheets in one World Cup. It notes CONMEBOL teams have won eight of 11 finals against Europe.