CBS Sports projects Spain and Argentina lineups for historic World Cup final
Spain enter as slight favourites with the tournament’s best defensive record, while Argentina rely on Lionel Messi’s Golden Boot lead ahead of Sunday’s showdown.
CBS Sports has released projected starting lineups for the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, scheduled for Sunday, July 19, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The match marks the first time in history that the reigning champions of South America and Europe have met for the World Cup title. Spain enters the final as the reigning European champions, while Argentina are the reigning South American champions.
Spain’s campaign has been defined by defensive solidity, having conceded only one goal in seven matches, the best defensive record in the tournament. Their strength lies in possession and midfield control through Rodri, Pedri, and Fabian Ruiz. This structure allows the team to score even when not at their best, mitigating injuries to key players such as Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Forwards Mikel Oyarzabal and Mikel Merino have combined for seven goals, just one short of Messi’s tally.
Argentina’s attack is described as more reliant on Lionel Messi, who leads the Golden Boot race with eight goals and four assists. Manager Lionel Scaloni may persist with Giuliano Simeone in the starting XI following his substitution for Rodrigo De Paul in the semi-final against England. Argentina’s defence has struggled down the wings in previous matches, prompting tactical adjustments, though the squad remains mostly healthy.
Betting odds list Spain as slight favourites at +130, followed by a draw at +195 and Argentina at +275. The lineups provided are projections by CBS Sports and are not confirmed official starting XIs. It remains uncertain whether Giuliano Simeone will persist in the starting XI or if other changes will be made by Scaloni.
The match will be broadcast on Fox in English and Telemundo in Spanish, with live streaming available via Fubo. Both teams have entered the final with mostly healthy squads, allowing managers to select their preferred players. The impact of potential injuries or tactical shifts on the final outcome is unknown.
