Spain aim for second World Cup star against holders Argentina

Spain will play Argentina in Sunday's World Cup final as they chase a second trophy, having last won the competition in 2010. The country arrives at the match buoyed by a recent Euro 2024 victory and a 37-game unbeaten run. Public confidence is high following the semi-final defeat of France, one of the tournament's pre-match favourites.

For a European nation where football heavily shapes public life, the final represents the vindication of a collective philosophy. According to former international Cesar Azpilicueta, the squad's strength lies in a shared mentality rather than individual brilliance. "To win this World Cup, we don't need to do anything spectacular - we just need to keep calm and carry on playing the same way," Azpilicueta said.

That consistency has defined their campaign. Spain have not trailed in any of their seven games at the tournament, a remarkable statistical outlier. Even when faced with adversity, such as an opening 0-0 draw against Cape Verde or late scrapes against Portugal and Belgium, the team refused to abandon its principles. The strategy centres on ball retention, though the squad has shown it can adapt to a deeper defensive block when required.

Standing between Spain and the trophy is an Argentina side that has demonstrated equal championship pedigree. Azpilicueta highlighted the threat of Lionel Messi, who famously shifted to the right flank to find space against England. Significant attention is also directed at Julian Alvarez, a forward Azpilicueta knows well from their time together at Atletico Madrid between 2023 and 2025. "It is very difficult to keep him in one place because he is always moving, always trying to find the free space," Azpilicueta noted.

Spain's defensive record—just one goal conceded—will be central to their game plan. This structural solidity is built on disciplined screening from midfielders Rodri and Fabian Ruiz. However, Azpilicueta pointed out that the defensive effort extends to the entire squad, noting that wingers like Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena have tracked back effectively.

Full-backs Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella have also balanced attacking contributions with defensive duties. Manager Luis de la Fuente initially managed a squad that was not fully fit, but momentum has improved as the tournament progressed. For the Spanish public, the final offers the prospect of national celebration driven by a unified squad. "This Spain side are a true team. They all have that mentality - to sometimes sacrifice themselves and put the team first."