Spain are banking on their strong collective identity and unwavering mentality to secure a second World Cup title, according to former national team captain Cesar Azpilicueta. As Luis de la Fuente's squad prepares to face reigning champions Argentina in Sunday's final, Azpilicueta emphasised that the team's strength lies in its cohesive play and consistent approach.
The nation's confidence is riding high, fueled by Spain's victory at Euro 2024 and an impressive 37-game unbeaten streak leading up to the tournament. This self-belief was further solidified by their semi-final triumph over France, who were considered strong contenders for the World Cup title. Azpilicueta, now working for the BBC on the tournament, noted that the country is united in its belief that Spain can emulate their 2010 World Cup success.
Spain's commitment to their playing style has been evident throughout the competition. Despite a surprising 0-0 draw against Cape Verde in their opening match, the team resisted panic and maintained their strategic approach. This steadfastness was also on display in challenging knockout encounters against Portugal and Belgium, where they had to fight until the final whistle to secure winning goals. Even when taking an early lead against France in the semi-final, Spain remained positive and did not deviate from their attacking philosophy to merely defend their advantage.
A remarkable aspect of Spain's journey to the final is that they have not trailed in any of their seven World Cup matches. Azpilicueta highlighted that this calm and consistent mindset would persist even if they were to fall behind against Argentina in the final. While acknowledging that Argentina, as holders, will be equally confident, the former Atletico Madrid player singled out Lionel Messi's exceptional form and ambition as a significant threat, alongside the goal-scoring prowess of Julian Alvarez, whom he described as a 'very complete player'.
Azpilicueta, who played alongside Alvarez at Atletico Madrid from 2023 to 2025, praised the Manchester City forward's versatility and relentless movement, making him a difficult opponent to contain. Despite the individual brilliance on the Argentinian side, Spain's focus remains on their collective strength and their established game plan of ball possession and control, a strategy they are determined to uphold until the very end of Sunday's decisive match.