Argentina and Spain will meet in the World Cup Final on Sunday, with both football giants chasing history at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Defending champions Argentina hope to become the first team in 64 years to retain the World Cup, while Spain target only their second global title after lifting the trophy in 2010. SBP Bank Lending Consumer, Housing and Private Sector Credit Post Strong Growth More than 80,000 fans are expected to attend the final, with US President Donald Trump among the high-profile guests. Tournament organisers are also monitoring air quality because wildfire smoke from Canada has affected parts of the region ahead of kick-off. The match will feature an extended half-time show lasting around 25 to 30 minutes. International music stars, including Madonna, Shakira and Justin Bieber, are expected to perform in a Super Bowl-style entertainment programme. Lionel Messi is set to play what is widely expected to be the final World Cup match of his remarkable career. The 39-year-old captain will become only the second player after Brazil’s Cafu to appear in three World Cup finals. Messi has delivered another outstanding tournament for Argentina. He has scored eight goals and leads the race for the Golden Boot. More importantly, he has inspired Argentina during crucial moments throughout the competition. The Argentine captain led an extraordinary comeback against Egypt in the round of 16. Argentina recovered from a 2-0 deficit with only 11 minutes remaining to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory. He also produced two assists in the semi-final win over England, helping his side overturn another difficult situation. Head coach Lionel Scaloni praised his squad’s determination and unity after reaching another World Cup final. “This group is difficult to explain,” Scaloni said. “The brotherhood and willingness to fight until the end make this team special. They fear nothing.” Spain arrive in the final after producing one of their best performances of the tournament to defeat France 2-0 in the semi-finals. Luis de la Fuente’s side controlled possession, dominated midfield and neutralised France’s dangerous attack with disciplined defending. Captain Rodri, Fabian Ruiz and Dani Olmo have formed one of the tournament’s strongest midfield combinations. Spain’s defence has also impressed, conceding only one goal while keeping six clean sheets in seven matches. Another clean sheet in the final would see Spain set a World Cup record for the fewest goals conceded by a title-winning team. Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal could also play a decisive role despite recovering from a recent hamstring injury. The 19-year-old won the penalty that opened the scoring against France and had another goal ruled out for a marginal offside. Sunday’s final will also reunite two coaches with a unique connection. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente mentored Lionel Scaloni when the Argentine coach studied for his professional coaching licence in Spain. Scaloni acknowledged that relationship but insisted it would not affect his approach. “He was my mentor and taught me many things,” Scaloni said. “I have great respect for him, but on Sunday I will try to beat him.” The final promises a fascinating clash between Argentina’s resilience and Spain’s possession-based style as two of world football’s most successful nations battle for the sport’s biggest prize. Post navigation Spain World Cup Final Spain Beat France 2-0 to Book Place in Title Clash
