In the semi-finals, Spain won 2-0 in a match that global media described as "teaching France a football lesson". Meanwhile, Argentina, inspired by Messi, came from behind to defeat England 2-1.

Former Sweden international Ibrahimovic praised Spain's performance against France, believing their superior ball control could secure a win in the final. He noted that Argentina has not been strong on counter-attacks this tournament. The South American side prefers an attacking, pressing style, as seen against Egypt and England in the closing minutes.

Lamine Yamal (left) vies for the ball with Kylian Mbappe during the World Cup semi-final between Spain and France at Dallas Stadium, Arlington, Texas, USA, on 14/7/2026. Photo: AP

"Luis de la Fuente's squad will control the ball. They have to compete on the wings with Lamine Yamal," Ibrahimovic told Fox Sports. "If Argentina loses patience and gets drawn into challenging for the ball, opportunities will arise. I believe Spain will dominate their opponents in the final."

The technical quality of their players and their playing philosophy have positioned both teams as leaders in average ball possession and number of passes in the tournament. According to FIFA, Argentina held 55% possession, while Spain had 58%, with both teams completing over 4,500 passes at a 91% success rate.

Henry, however, noted the contrasting football philosophies. Spain is more comprehensive in controlling the game, but Argentina possesses an exceptional individual talent and an unexplainably strong spirit. Furthermore, Messi's fitness could significantly influence the outcome.

"Does Messi still have enough energy? I'm not sure," Henry said. "But who would dare bet against an Argentina team with Messi and a latent power ready to explode at any moment in the match?"

Lionel Messi (10) dribbles past Anthony Gordon (18) and Harry Kane (9) in Argentina's 2-1 comeback victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semi-final at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, on 15/7/2026. Photo: AP

Historically, the two teams have met 14 times, most recently when Spain defeated Argentina 6-1 in a friendly match in March 2018. However, in World Cup history, Spanish newspaper AS called their sole encounter "a forgotten classic". Argentina beat Spain 2-1 in the group stage to advance in the 1966 tournament.

60 years later, the two teams missed an earlier meeting when the Intercontinental Super Cup match between the Euro and Copa America champions (Finallisima) was cancelled. However, fate has brought them to an even bigger and more important match: the 2026 World Cup final. This marks the first time a World Cup final features the top 2 teams in the FIFA rankings, who are also the reigning champions representing football's two strongest continents.

Argentina aims to become the first team to successfully defend the World Cup title in the 21st century, while Spain seeks to add a second star to their jersey, following their 2010 victory.

The match at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, USA, will also feature a clash between Messi, widely considered the greatest player of all time, and Yamal, one of today's brightest young stars. Despite a 20-year age gap, they share a common link through Barca and La Masia. Catalonia is expected to experience a night of mixed emotions, balancing faith in their national team with apprehension towards one of Barca's icons.

"What more could we ask for? The European champions against the South American and world champions," Henry stated. "Yamal facing Messi as well. The future belongs to Yamal, while Messi is the past, present, future, and forever. I can't wait to see this match."

Like Henry, legendary Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas described it as "a great final". However, he expressed confidence in his home team. "Argentina will not get a fourth star on their jersey. Spain will get their second star. Vamos," the 2010 World Cup champion wrote on X.

By Trung Thu