EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ ~ Spain and Argentina will meet Sunday in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, bringing Lamine Yamal, 19, and Lionel Messi, 39, into a rare generational matchup at the center of the tournament’s final day.
Spain advanced after a controlled 2–0 semifinal win over France, relying on a defensive plan against French striker Kylian Mbappé and scoring twice to secure the victory. Argentina reached the final by defeating England 2–1, with Messi continuing his scoring run and entering the match among the tournament’s leading scorers.
Many observers view the 2026 tournament as likely to be Messi’s final World Cup, though Messi has not publicly confirmed his plans beyond this tournament.
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(CONTINUED) A widely circulated photograph from a charity event has reappeared throughout the tournament, showing Messi holding Yamal as an infant more than two decades ago. The image has resurfaced as the two players meet in the World Cup final, underscoring the contrast between Messi’s long career and Yamal’s rapid rise.
Kickoff is scheduled for 12 p.m. local time, concluding the 104-match tournament. Spain seeks its second World Cup title, while Argentina aims to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive championships.
