Argentina enter the final hoping to lift their fourth World Cup trophy and become the first men’s team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the title. Once again, Lionel Messi led their campaign. The Argentina captain has provided eight goals and four assists and is now one game away from completing what is expected to be his last World Cup with another record win.
Spain, meanwhile, are looking to reclaim the world crown for the first time since 2010. Led by Luis de la Fuente, La Roja combined solid defense with their trademark football, scoring just one goal in the final. Influential youngster Lamine Yamal has emerged as one of the tournament’s biggest players, while Rodri’s control in midfield and Mikel Oyarzabal’s goals have fueled Spain’s run.
The final also represents a symbolic battle between the generations, Messi meets Yamal, a young man who was identified as a baby during a photo shoot in 2007. This surprising connection adds another interesting story to an already interesting competition.
Beyond that, the event promises to be one of the most spectacular in World Cup history. A star-studded closing ceremony, FIFA’s first halftime show with international music shows and the presence of world leaders will accompany the biggest night of football. As the 104th and final match of the biggest World Cup ever, the clash between Argentina and Spain is set to provide a fitting end to the historic tournament.
