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Argentina Defends World Cup Title Against Spain as Messi Plays Final Match
Holders Argentina prepare to defend their title against Spain on Sunday with captain Lionel Messi likely closing out his international career in the match.
How we reported this
Argentina will face Spain in the 2026 World Cup final after both teams advanced through the semi-finals, with President Donald Trump confirmed to attend the decisive game. The match pits the defending champions against a Spanish side featuring young forward Lamine Yamal, who once appeared in a childhood photo with Messi nearly two decades ago.
The final carries extra weight for fans in Buenos Aires because it could mark the end of Messi's time with the national team. Argentina seeks to become the first side in 64 years to retain the trophy, while the buildup has drawn attention from local readers following every stage of the Albiceleste campaign.
Messi and Yamal headline final matchup
Photos from the tournament show Messi celebrating goals in group stage matches and preparing for the semi-final against England in Atlanta on July 15. The contrast with Yamal underscores a generational shift, yet both players will compete for the same prize. Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez described the team's recent heroics as moving him to tears after the semi-final victory.
Coaches Lionel Scaloni and Luis de la Fuente bring their own history to the final. Scaloni studied for his coaching licence under de la Fuente nine years ago outside Madrid. Their paths now converge with the World Cup at stake, a detail that has circulated among supporters tracking the tournament from Buenos Aires.
Milei skips final over superstition
President Javier Milei announced he will not attend the final, citing superstition. The decision comes as the World Cup distracts from domestic political adjustments involving Milei and his sister Karina. British officials have also called for FIFA to review a banner displayed by Argentina players after the England match that read "Las Malvinas son Argentinas."
Reports from the Buenos Aires Times note that a string of comebacks has given the team confidence heading into the final. Trump met FIFA President Gianni Infantino at Trump Tower on July 17 and confirmed his presence for the championship game between Spain and Argentina.
Residents in Buenos Aires can follow updates through local broadcasts and public viewings as the team prepares for what many expect to be Messi's last appearance in the Albiceleste shirt. The outcome will shape conversations across the city in the days after the match.