World Cup 2026 Early Guide for Messi, Argentina vs. Spain Final in Bracket

The World Cup final is now set.

Argentina's 2-1 comeback victory over England on Wednesday set up a matchup with Spain to decide the 2026 World Cup champion.

Below, we'll preview that match as Spain seek to win the second title in their history and Argentina seeks title No. 4 (and the second one in a row).

Details

Time: Sunday, July 19 at 3 p.m. ET

Watch: Fox, Telemundo

Preview

Spain's 2-0 win over France—a country absolutely loaded with elite talent—was a reminder of just how dominant this Spanish side can be when it is firing on all cylinders.

Thus far at this year's World Cup, Spain has given up just one goal, outscoring opponents 13-1. France, with perhaps the most talented array of attackers in the entire World Cup field, was held to an xG of 0.31 against them.

And this isn't some new development. This Spanish side won the 2024 Euros, going undefeated in that tournament while beating the likes of Croatia, Italy, Germany, France and England.

Young superstar Lamine Yamal has literally never lost as a starter for Spain at a major tournament:

So yes, Spain are an absolute powerhouse at the moment. But Argentina isn't going to just roll over and concede defeat.

In fact, pulling off improbable comebacks has been something of a calling card for the Argentines, who have shown incredible resilience in this tournament. You also cannot underestimate the impact that the GOAT, Lionel Messi, exerts over the proceedings.

Despite being 39 and seemingly out of his prime, the Argentine superstar has been arguably the best player at this year's World Cup, holding the joint lead in goals (eight) to go along with four assists.

That included two assists on Wednesday, helping fuel a breathless Argentina comeback late in the second half.

The Argentines simply don't give up. The Spanish remove any hope an opponent might harbor. It's going to be a brilliant clash of two absolute powerhouses.