Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni named a starting lineup with three changes from the team that beat England 2-1 in the semifinals, bringing in Rodrigo De Paul, Gonzalo Montiel, and Nicolas Gonzalez for the World Cup final on July 19, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The players dropped from Argentina’s starting eleven were Giuliano Simeone, Nahuel Molina, and Leandro Paredes [1, 2, 3]. Lionel Messi captains Argentina and will become the first man to start three World Cup finals [1, 3].
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente opted for an unchanged starting eleven from the semifinal victory over France [1, 2, 3]. Despite some concerns, Lamine Yamal returned to play up front after missing parts of training due to a knock received in the semifinal, while Pedro Porro started despite hamstring discomfort. Pedri remains among the substitutes [1, 2, 3].
Argentina qualified for the final by defeating England 2-1, with goals from Lautaro Martínez and Enzo Fernández [3]. Their starting lineup for the final includes nine players who also started the 2022 final, with Montiel and Nicolas Gonzalez filling the spots left open by retired Ángel Di María and others [3].
The final marks the first time reigning champions of Europe (Spain) and South America (Argentina) have contested the World Cup final against each other [3]. This will be Spain’s second World Cup final after winning the trophy once in 2010 [3].
The two teams announced their lineups on July 19, 2026, ahead of the final later that day [1, 2, 3].
