Azpilicueta urges Spain to maintain tactical discipline ahead of World Cup final
Cesar Azpilicueta writes for BBC Sport, citing Spain’s 37-game unbeaten run and structured approach as advantages in Sunday’s clash with the holders.
Former Spain captain Cesar Azpilicueta has called on his national team to rely on their established collective identity and composure ahead of the 2026 World Cup final against Argentina. Writing for BBC Sport, the former Chelsea and Atletico Madrid defender emphasised that Spain’s confidence stems from their defensive organisation and a consistent tactical framework that has seen them concede only one goal throughout the tournament.
Azpilicueta pointed to Spain’s 37-game unbeaten run and their victory at Euro 2024 as foundational sources of belief. He noted that the squad has not trailed in any of their seven World Cup matches to date, a statistic he described as remarkable. Despite a goalless draw with Cape Verde in the opening fixture and tight knockout victories, the team has maintained its approach without panic or significant alteration.
The former defender identified Argentina’s Julian Alvarez as a primary threat, drawing on his experience playing alongside the forward at Atletico Madrid between 2023 and 2025. Azpilicueta described Alvarez as a versatile and intelligent player capable of creating space and finishing clinically from various positions on the pitch. He also acknowledged the form of Lionel Messi, who leads the tournament’s scoring charts with eight goals, noting the Argentine captain’s ability to influence games through positional shifts.
Spain’s structural resilience was highlighted as a key defensive asset, with Azpilicueta praising the disciplined screening roles of Rodri and Fabian Ruiz. He also commended the defensive work rate of attacking players such as Lamine Yamal and Alex Baena, who have contributed to limiting opponents’ clear chances. The full-backs, Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella, were singled out for their dual contributions in both defensive solidity and attacking build-up play.
Coach Luis de la Fuente, who previously won European titles with Spain’s youth sides before securing the senior Euro 2024 trophy, is credited with managing player fitness and momentum throughout the campaign. Azpilicueta asserted that the squad’s fitness levels have improved as the tournament progressed, positioning them to face Argentina with confidence. The final is scheduled for Sunday.
