• Source:JND
HighLights
  1. Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal both start the World Cup final.
  2. Leandro Paredes is surprisingly named among the substitutes.
  3. Spain and Argentina have confirmed their starting XIs for the title clash.

The long-awaited day in world soccer has finally come when Spain takes on Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 finals at the MetLife Stadium. A thrilling competition is in the making as both coaches have named their starting line-ups.

Argentina had a smooth ride so far as they have defeated Egypt, Switzerland and England in their respective previous matches in the knockout stage. Coach Lionel Scaloni has taken one of the boldest decisions by keeping Leandro Paredes on the bench while making sure Lionel Messi is included in the line-up as captain for La Albiceleste, taking part in one of the most pivotal games in his long sporting career.

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Spain has entered the finals after beating Portugal, Belgium and France. Manager Luis de la Fuente is relying on regular players of the team and the presence of promising young talent Lamine Yamal in the attack along with Dani Olmo and Alex Baena is sure to be an advantage.

Argentina Team News

Lionel Messi captains the side and partners Julián Álvarez in attack. Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister retain their places in midfield, while Leandro Paredes has to settle for a place on the bench. Emiliano Martínez starts in goal behind the experienced defensive line of Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez and Nicolás Tagliafico.

Spain Team News

Spain have named an unchanged lineup for the final. Unai Simón starts between the posts, with Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte and Marc Cucurella forming the backline. Rodri and Fabián Ruiz will control the midfield, while Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Álex Baena support lone striker Mikel Oyarzabal.

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Argentina Starting XI

Emiliano Martínez; Montiel, Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Nicolás González; Lionel Messi (c), Julián Álvarez.

Spain Starting XI

Unai Simón; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri (c), Fabián Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Álex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal.


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