When Spain and Argentina meet on Sunday for the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, it’s a significant moment for both teams. This game is only their second meeting in the tournament’s history, with their last encounter happening 60 years ago. These two teams are part of an elite group of eight nations to have ever won a World Cup.
Argentina, the defending champions, aims to achieve back-to-back World Cup victories, a feat last accomplished by Brazil in 1958 and 1962. Spain, seen as a slight favorite, is vying for their second title. Their previous match was during the 1966 World Cup group stage, where Argentina triumphed 2-1. Argentina advanced to the quarterfinals, but Spain was eliminated in the group stage.
Argentina’s first World Cup title came in 1978 when they hosted the tournament. They won again in 1986 in Mexico, led by the legendary Diego Maradona. Most recently, they claimed the title in 2022 in Qatar, finally crowning Lionel Messi.
Argentina’s World Cup History
Argentina has won the World Cup three times and reached the finals seven times. Their first win in 1978 was surrounded by controversy, involving a match against Peru. Argentina needed a four-goal win and achieved an unexpected 6-0 victory amid allegations of off-field pressure on the Peruvian players.
Their 1986 win is equally famous, particularly for Maradona’s controversial “Hand of God” goal against England, followed by his stunning second goal. Argentina defeated West Germany 3-2 in the final. Their 2022 victory in Qatar came after losing their opening match to Saudi Arabia. Despite the upset, Argentina went on to defeat France in a dramatic final.
Spain’s Road to Glory
Spain secured their only World Cup win in 2010 in South Africa, reaching the finals for the first time. They’ve qualified for 13 consecutive World Cups since 1978 and have been a formidable team. Spain’s current team features promising players like Lamine Yamal and 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri.
Their 2010 campaign began with a surprising loss to Switzerland, but they rebounded to win three knockout matches by identical 1-0 scores. In the final, a late goal from Andrés Iniesta secured their victory over the Netherlands, making Spain the first European team to win outside Europe.
The Clash of Generations
This World Cup final promises to be compelling, largely due to the anticipated face-off between Messi and Yamal. Messi, nearing the end of his renowned career, will vie against the teenage sensation Yamal. This will be Yamal’s first World Cup, while it’s Messi’s record sixth appearance.
Their connection dates back to when Messi, then an established star at FC Barcelona, held an infant Yamal for a charity calendar photo. Now, Yamal is on his journey with the same club. Looking ahead, Yamal aspires to carve his path in soccer, distinct from Messi’s illustrious career. Speaking to “60 Minutes,” he expressed admiration for Messi, referring to him as the best in history.