The stage is set for the World Cup 2026 final, with reigning champions Argentina preparing to face Spain in a blockbuster encounter. The highly anticipated match will be held on Sunday in New Jersey, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm BST.
Spain secured their place in the decider after overcoming France in Dallas, adding to their recent triumph at Euro 2024. Their quest for global glory pits them against an Argentinian side that dramatically defeated England in their semi-final match, with a late comeback breaking English hearts in stoppage time. The semi-final saw England manager Thomas Tuchel's substitute strategy reportedly backfire.
Before the final, England and France, the two losing semi-finalists, met in a thrilling third-place play-off on Saturday. The Three Lions emerged victorious from a high-scoring affair, beating France 6-4 to secure the bronze medal in the tournament.
The 2026 World Cup commenced in Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium, a venue steeped in football history, having hosted two previous World Cup finals and being the site of Diego Maradona's memorable goals against England in 1986. The tournament has been co-hosted across three nations: Mexico and Canada each staged 13 matches, while the United States hosted the majority, with 78 games.
From the quarter-final stage onwards, all remaining fixtures were held exclusively in the United States, culminating in Sunday's final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Football fans globally await to see if Argentina can retain their title or if Spain will add a World Cup to their recent European Championship success.