The World Cup final is approaching, presenting an exciting contrast of strategies. Lionel Messi, the tournament’s all-time leading goal scorer, and the reigning champions Argentina are set to face Spain’s robust defense this Sunday in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
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The World Cup final is approaching, presenting an exciting contrast of strategies. Lionel Messi, the tournament’s all-time leading goal scorer, and the reigning champions Argentina are set to face Spain’s robust defense this Sunday in East Rutherford, New Jersey. REUTERS/Amanda Perobelli
Spain secured a victory against France in one semifinal on Tuesday, while Argentina, known for its comebacks, triumphed over England 2-1 in the other semifinal on Wednesday.
Argentina currently leads the tournament with 19 goals scored, while Spain boasts the least goals conceded, allowing only one.
How Spain reached this stage —
Record: Six wins, one draw, zero losses.
– Goals scored: 13.
– Goals conceded: 1.
– Group stage: drew with Cape Verde 0-0, beat Saudi Arabia 4-0, defeated Uruguay 1-0.
– Knockout stage: beat Austria 3-0, overcame Portugal 1-0, defeated Belgium 2-1, and beat France 2-0.
How Argentina got here
Record: Seven wins, zero draws, zero losses.
– Goals scored: 19.
– Goals conceded: 7.
– Group stage: beat Algeria 3-0, defeated Austria 2-0, and overcame Jordan 3-1.
– Knockout stage: defeated Cape Verde 3-2, edged past Egypt 3-2, overcame Switzerland 3-1, and beat England 2-1.
Spain carries an impressive 37-match unbeaten streak across all competitions heading into the final, winning 28 of those matches, with nine ending in draws. Their last defeat was 1-0 against Colombia in March 2024.
Argentina remains unbeaten in its last 13 World Cup matches, achieving 11 wins and two draws since losing to Saudi Arabia at the start of group play in the 2022 tournament.
