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 take place on Sunday, 18 July, at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm BST. Football fans across the globe are eagerly awaiting the climax of a tournament that has delivered numerous thrilling moments.
Spain secured their spot in the final after overcoming France in a gripping semi-final clash held in Dallas. This victory offers Spain the chance to add a World Cup title to their recent continental success, having already lifted the Euro 2024 trophy. Their opponents, Argentina, booked their place in dramatic fashion, coming from behind to defeat England in stoppage time during their semi-final, a match that saw England's tactical decisions ultimately backfire.
Before the final, the two semi-final losers, England and France, will compete for third place. This play-off match is scheduled for Saturday, 17 July, with a 10pm BST kick-off. Both teams will be looking to end their tournament campaigns on a high note, despite the disappointment of missing out on the final.
The 2026 World Cup has been a monumental event, co-hosted by three North American nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Mexico and Canada each hosted 13 matches, while the United States took on the majority of the fixtures with 78 games. From the quarter-finals onwards, all remaining matches, including the final, have been held in the US.
The tournament commenced in Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium, a venue rich in World Cup history. It was the site of Diego Maradona's memorable and controversial goals against England in 1986, and has hosted two classic World Cup finals: Brazil's 4-1 triumph over Italy in 1970 and Argentina's 3-2 victory against West Germany in 1986. The choice of such a historically significant venue for the opening match underscored the tournament's grand scale and ambition.