World Cup final: Spain vs Argentina – Which team has best chance to win?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament culminates in a final matchup between Spain and Argentina, two of the competition's strongest sides. Argentina enters as the defending World Cup champions, having won the title in 2022 after their previous victories in 1978 and 1986. Spain arrives as the current European champions and holds the top ranking in international football.

Argentina's campaign has been defined by the continued influence of Lionel Messi, the 39-year-old Inter Miami forward who remains central to the team's attacking play. Messi is on track to win the tournament's Golden Boot award with eight goals. The team's midfield—comprising Enzo Fernandes, Alexis Mac Allister, and Paredes—has functioned as a protective unit, shielding both Messi and the defensive line throughout the tournament.

A significant vulnerability for Argentina lies in their dependence on Messi's fitness and form. The team lacks a clear alternative capable of generating the same creative spark, leaving them exposed should their star player sustain injury. While the squad includes attacking talent such as Giuliano Simeone, Julian Alvarez, and Lautaro Martinez, along with defensive strength, none of these players has demonstrated the ability to replace Messi's influence.

Argentina's recent form has been strong, maintaining an unbeaten run since a qualifying loss to Ecuador. The team progressed through the group stage with eight goals scored and only one conceded. Their knockout matches have been more competitive, requiring extra effort in victories against Cape Verde and Egypt, with a quarterfinal win over Switzerland secured 3-1.