Spain set for World Cup final showdown with Argentina in New Jersey

Spain, the reigning European champions, are scheduled to face Argentina, the Copa America champions, in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final on Sunday at the New York-New Jersey Stadium. The match is set to kick off at 8pm BST on 19 July, with UK viewers able to watch the broadcast live on the BBC and ITV.

Spain enters the final in record-setting form, remaining unbeaten in their last 37 matches and conceding only one goal across seven tournament games. The team has not fallen behind at any stage during this World Cup, a testament to their tactical discipline. Their path to the final was secured by a 2-0 semi-final victory over France at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday, 14 July.

Head coach Luis de la Fuente has confirmed that key players Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro are expected to be fit for the final. Yamal trained separately with strapping on his left thigh following the semi-final, but the coach clarified this was a precautionary workload management measure rather than an injury concern. Porro has also recovered from minor hamstring fatigue that limited his involvement earlier in the week.

With no suspensions affecting the squad, Spain is expected to maintain its usual tactical setup. Rodri and Fabián Ruiz are anticipated to control the midfield, providing defensive cover and possession dominance. In the attacking line, Alex Baena is expected to start over Nico Williams, with Mikel Oyarzabal leading the forward line.

Argentina reached the final following a strong group stage performance, which included a 2-0 victory over Austria in Dallas. Lionel Messi scored twice in that match, bringing his career World Cup goal tally to 17. The final represents the culmination of a tournament where Spain’s defensive solidity and consistent performance have distinguished them from their opponents.