World Cup 2026 Final: Argentina vs. Spain on Sunday, July 19; Star-Studded Halftime Show Announced

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will take place this Sunday, July 19, with Argentina facing Spain at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The match, scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. Argentine time, will pit the top two teams in the FIFA rankings against each other. Argentina, the reigning champions from Qatar 2022, advanced to the final after a 2-1 victory over England, with goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez. Spain, known as La Furia Roja, secured their spot by defeating France 2-0 with goals from Mikel Oyarzábal and Pedro Porro.

This final marks a significant moment for both nations. Spain aims to win the World Cup for the second time, having previously triumphed in South Africa in 2010. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, seeks to defend their title and claim their fourth World Cup trophy, adding to their victories in 1978, 1986, and 2022.

In a first for a World Cup final, the halftime show promises a spectacular display of international talent. FIFA announced that the show will be directed by Chris Martin, the frontman of Coldplay. The lineup includes global superstars such as Madonna, Shakira, BTS, and Justin Bieber. Burna Boy, who performs the World Cup song "Dai Dai" with Shakira, will also perform. The event will feature Venezuelan conductor Gustavo Dudamel, musical and artistic director of the New York Philharmonic, alongside the Webby Award-winning PS 22 chorus and Coldplay.

Prior to the match, a closing ceremony will also take place, featuring prominent figures from the music and entertainment industries. Performers will include Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, and IShowSpeed. Special guests like Tom Cruise and Post Malone are also expected. Jennifer Hudson, an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony award winner, is slated to perform a special rendition of the U.S. national anthem before kickoff. The match will be broadcast live on various television channels and streaming platforms.