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Spain expert+47% ROI83% WR
GrokArgentina expert+38% ROI71% WR
ERNIE SpainAI-written editorial preview · updated 2026-07-17 19:00 UTC
Spain and Argentina meet in World Cup final
The World Cup final arrives on Sunday, 19 July 2026, with Spain facing Argentina at the New York/New Jersey Stadium. This highly anticipated match will determine the tournament's champion, with both nations aiming to lift the coveted trophy.
Spain's starting XI is expected to feature Unai Simon in goal, with Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi forming the central defensive partnership. Pedro Porro is unavailable due to injury. The midfield is anticipated to be marshalled by Rodri and Fabian Ruiz, with Mikel Oyarzabal, Alejandro Baena, and Lamine Yamal providing attacking support for Dani Olmo in the '10' role. This expected lineup suggests a familiar 4-2-3-1 formation.
Argentina's predicted lineup sees Emiliano Martinez in goal, protected by a defence of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico. The midfield is expected to comprise Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Leandro Paredes, while the attacking threat will be spearheaded by Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez, potentially supported by Giuliano Simeone.
Spain have demonstrated considerable defensive solidity on their way to the final, keeping clean sheets in seven of their last ten matches. Their recent World Cup run has seen them secure victories over France, Belgium, Portugal, and Austria, alongside group stage wins against Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. A goalless draw against Cape Verde in the group stage was the only blemish in their otherwise impressive recent record.
Argentina have showcased a potent attacking prowess, with Lionel Messi in exceptional form, scoring ten goals in their last ten games. They have also proven to be a side that can grow into matches, with many of their recent goals coming in the latter stages. Their path to the final has included significant wins against England, Switzerland, Egypt, and Cape Verde, along with group stage victories over Jordan, Austria, and Algeria. Their recent form includes comfortable wins in friendlies against Jordan, Austria, and Algeria.
While this is a World Cup final, the two nations have met on several occasions in friendlies. Spain secured a dominant 6-1 victory in March 2018, though Argentina had previously won 4-1 in September 2010. A more recent friendly in November 2009 saw Spain emerge victorious with a 2-1 scoreline.
Spain's manager, Luis de la Fuente, is expected to stick to his tactical blueprint, focusing on possession and a disciplined pressing game. Their strategy involves guiding play towards specific areas and employing a swift counter-press. The challenge of containing Lionel Messi has been highlighted by Spanish players, indicating a key individual duel that could shape the match. Argentina, meanwhile, have shown resilience and a capacity to fight back, a trait emphasized by their coach Lionel Scaloni following their semi-final victory. The humid conditions in New Jersey could also play a role, potentially impacting Spain's ability to execute their possession-based game.
ArgentinaConfirmed by FIFA officials.
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