How can Argentina and Messi beat Spain and Yamal to defend World Cup?
Argentina prepares to face Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, with the defending champions entering the match as underdogs. Despite Lionel Messi's leadership, Spain is favored to win following their dominant performance against France.
Why it matters
The World Cup final is a major global cultural event, and this match highlights the shifting power dynamics in international football.
Despite Lionel Messi’s presence, Argentina enter the 2026 final as underdogs to Spain and their starlet Lamine Yamal.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info The Final July 19 visual with the flags of Spain and Argentina is displayed against the Manhattan skyline during the FIFA drone show in New York [David Ramos/Getty Images via AFP] By Kevin Hand Published On 16 Jul 2026 16 Jul 2026 Four years after their triumph in Lusail Stadium at Qatar 2022, Argentina have the chance to become only the third side to defend a World Cup crown.
They may be led by the legendary Lionel Messi, they may be champions of South America – indeed, the holders may well be the comeback kings of the tournament – but they are not the favourites.
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