Argentina and Spain Announce Lineups Ahead of Highly Anticipated World Cup Final

Defending champions Argentina and European heavyweights Spain have officially released their starting lineups ahead of tonight’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final at the New York New Jersey Stadium. Both squads confirmed their starting XIs on social media under two hours before the highly anticipated match, which is scheduled to kick off at 8:00 p.m. WAT.

Argentina, led by legendary captain Lionel Messi, will feature a formidable attacking partnership as Messi starts alongside Julián Álvarez. Goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez remains between the posts, protected by a defensive backline consisting of Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, and Nicolás Tagliafico. The midfield will be anchored by Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and Nico González. The full Argentine selection is Dibu Martínez, Montiel, Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Tagliafico, De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Mac Allister, Nico González, Messi, and Julián Álvarez.

Spain’s manager has chosen to maintain continuity, keeping Unai Simón in goal. The defensive unit features Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, and Marc Cucurella. The central midfield will be controlled by Rodri and Fabián Ruiz, while the creative trio of Álex Baena, Dani Olmo, and teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal are set to provide service for lone striker Mikel Oyarzabal. The full Spanish selection is Unai Simón, Porro, Cubarsí, Laporte, Cucurella, Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, Álex Baena, Dani Olmo, Lamine Yamal, and Oyarzabal.

The final showdown brings together two undefeated sides throughout the tournament. While Argentina aims to successfully retain the world title they won in 2022, Spain is looking to capture the second FIFA World Cup trophy in their nation’s history. Beyond the ultimate team prize, multiple historic individual and collective milestones are on the line for both teams.