Spain and Argentina set for World Cup final in New York
Luis de la Fuente’s polished Spanish side takes on Lionel Scaloni’s resilient Argentina in the 2026 final, with France 24 reporting from the metropolitan area.
Spain and Argentina are scheduled to contest the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, 19 July 2026, in the New York and New Jersey metropolitan area. The match represents the culmination of the tournament, with Spain entering as the clear favourites and aiming to solidify their status as a global football power. Argentina, the defending champions, are pursuing a historic quadruple of international trophies for Lionel Messi.
The fixture features a unique coaching dynamic, as Spain manager Luis de la Fuente faces off against Lionel Scaloni, who was previously a coaching student of de la Fuente. According to France 24, the contest promises a clash between the tournament’s most polished side and a team known for its trademark resilience and ability to survive against the odds.
Spain’s path to the final was secured with a 2-0 victory over France in the semi-final at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday, 14 July 2026. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro confirmed their progression, establishing them as the team to beat in the final stages of the competition.
In the accompanying third-place playoff, also held on 19 July 2026, England defeated France 6-4. Jude Bellingham scored the winning goal in the 90+8th minute, marking Didier Deschamps’ final game as France’s manager.
France 24 journalist Selina Sykes is reporting from New York, while International Affairs Editor Kethevane Gorjestani provides analysis on the geopolitical and sporting implications of the event. The final will serve as the definitive test of both nations' campaigns in the 2026 World Cup.
