Spain aim for historic Euro-World Cup double against Argentina
Spain face Argentina in the World Cup final, with Luis de la Fuente’s side seeking a rare continental and world double that would underline Europe's enduring football dominance.
Spain will play Argentina in the World Cup final, with the European champions aiming to become only the fourth men’s side to hold both titles simultaneously. A victory for Spain would echo the achievements of West Germany, France, and their own 2008 to 2012 generation. Argentina are chasing their own piece of history as the third country to win back-to-back World Cups, and the first this century.
Tactical contrasts define the matchup. Argentina have been the tournament's most prolific attack with 19 goals, though they have conceded seven. Spain, who have scored 14, possess the meanest defence with just a single goal against them.
Spain also hold a structural advantage in fatigue. Luis de la Fuente’s squad has played 717 minutes, finishing all seven matches in regulation time. Argentina have logged 794 minutes, requiring extra time twice, which could test a squad that is largely four years older than the one that won in 2022.
The match highlights a shift in coaching pedigrees. Neither De la Fuente nor Lionel Scaloni has top-division club experience. De la Fuente was dismissed after just 11 games at third-tier Alavés before moving to Spain’s youth setups in 2013, while Scaloni has almost exclusively managed national teams.
Off-field factors and diplomacy
Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic will take charge, having already overseen Spain’s 2-1 semi-final victory over France at Euro 2024. Spain also benefit from scheduling, enjoying an extra day of rest; 13 of the last 14 major finals have been won by the team that played their semi-final first.
Political attendance underscores the game's public significance in Europe. Spain’s prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, and King Felipe VI will both attend. In contrast, Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, will watch from Buenos Aires, telling a local radio station there is “no way” he is travelling to New Jersey to avoid breaking a 36-year presidential superstition.
Environmental conditions in New York could also play a role. Wildfire smoke from Canada prompted air-quality alerts earlier in the week, though conditions have improved. Spain may be better adapted, having played just one of their seven matches in a fully outdoor stadium, whereas Argentina have played outside three times in temperatures reaching 32C.
The two sides were originally scheduled to meet in March for the Finalissima in Qatar before the match was cancelled. Uefa stated that “due to the current political situation in the region, the Finalissima cannot be played as hoped”. The winners on Sunday will receive championship rings, with 30 designated for the squad and 1,996 sold to the public.
