Argentina and Spain set for World Cup 2026 final; Scaloni weighs lineup amid fitness concerns

Argentina and Spain are set to clash in the 2026 World Cup final this Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The match kicks off at 4 p.m. local time, with Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni yet to confirm the starting lineup. Scaloni noted that the team had limited training opportunities following their semifinal victory.

Argentina secured their spot in the final by overcoming England 2-1, with goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez. Spain, meanwhile, achieved a significant upset by defeating pre-tournament favorites France 2-0, thanks to goals from Mikel Oyarzábal and Pedro Porro.

Scaloni expressed concerns about player fitness, stating that some players are not at 100 percent. "We will see how they are because there are players who are not at 100 percent," he said during a press conference. "In principle, we will play by doing our job and thinking about the good things the opponent has."

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We will see how they are because there are players who are not at 100 percent. In principle, we will play by doing our job and thinking about the good things the opponent has.

Emiliano 'Dibu' Martínez is confirmed as the starting goalkeeper. Martínez spoke to the media, emphasizing his focus on team trust over individual accolades. "I don't care if I don't have a Best Player trophy or don't make the front pages of newspapers. What matters is that the players and the coach trust me," he commented. "If my moment doesn't come and we win the final, the cup has the same size and color."

In defense, a question mark remains at right-back, with Nahuel Molina's performance being a point of concern. Gonzalo Montiel has shown he is capable of stepping up when called upon, particularly in the recent semifinal against England. The rest of the defensive line is expected to remain consistent, featuring Cristian 'Cuti' Romero and Lisandro Martínez at center-back, Nicolás Tagliafico at left-back tasked with marking Lamine Yamal, and Leandro Paredes anchoring the midfield.

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I don't care if I don't have a Best Player trophy or don't make the front pages of newspapers. What matters is that the players and the coach trust me. If my moment doesn't come and we win the final, the cup has the same size and color.