Fernando Llorente: 'The Night Before the World Cup Final Is Not Like Any Other Match'

The night before a World Cup final is an experience unlike any other match, according to former Spanish national team striker Fernando Llorente. Speaking ahead of the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, Llorente shared his insights on the unique pressure and emotions involved. "It will be a very beautiful match," Llorente stated. "I remember we were nervous, uncertain; the night before is not like any other match. But I am very surprised by how the young lads approach these kinds of games."

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It will be a very beautiful match. I remember we were nervous, uncertain; the night before is not like any other match. But I am very surprised by how the young lads approach these kinds of games.

Llorente observed that the current generation of players shows no fear in high-stakes matches. "They show that this generation of players is not afraid to play a match of these characteristics and that they are capable of giving their best," he added. The former Athletic Club, Juventus, and Sevilla forward believes the two best teams have reached the final. He predicted that the team that starts the match with more intensity and desire, plays well, and is accurate in the final third will have a strong chance of winning. "Ultimately, many times the one who scores a goal makes the game change and gains more confidence; anything can happen," Llorente commented.

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They show that this generation of players is not afraid to play a match of these characteristics and that they are capable of giving their best.

Reflecting on individual brilliance, Llorente unequivocally named Lionel Messi as "the best player in history." He expressed admiration for Messi's sustained performance and dedication. "It is something to take your hat off to what he continues to show us, and especially for young people. It is a lesson, an example for all young people of the hunger he still has to keep improving and making history," Llorente concluded.

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The one who starts the match with more intensity and desire, plays well, and is accurate in the final third will have a strong chance of winning. Ultimately, many times the one who scores a goal makes the game change and gains more confidence; anything can happen.