La Albiceleste received an unexpected boost from the rival dugout. Spain manager Luis De la Fuente delivered a masterclass in sportsmanship in New York ahead of the 2026 World Cup final. «I’d happily reach a World Cup final every year and lose it», the boss stated, stressing the sheer merit of making it that far.

What did De la Fuente say about Argentina?

De la Fuente didn’t shy away from praise. «I have extraordinary admiration for a team that’s a two-time Copa América winner, World Cup champion, 2026 World Cup finalist and Finalissima winner» -he noted-. He even slipped in a personal nod: «the side is coached by a friend of mine» (Lionel Scaloni), aligning Argentina’s sportsmanship with his own. «There are football weapons -he added-. The team that plays better and neutralizes the opponent’s strengths will come out on top».

The Spaniard’s talk went beyond tactics. «Lamine has to be Lamine» -he fired back when asked about the Yamal vs Messi talent showdown-. And he warned: «when things don’t go your way, keep working, never give up». A message aimed at youngsters, but also at fans demanding instant success.

Why does his speech matter at the 2026 World Cup?

Amid today’s polarization, the Spanish boss chose respect. «The hive over the bee» -he quoted Roman philosophy- to remind all that the journey matters as much as the trophy. Argentina, riding a five-game winning streak (WWWWW, last: England 1-2 Argentina on July 15), faces Spain on Saturday the 19th in a clash of finalists.

De la Fuente dodged controversies over alleged favoritism. «I wouldn’t dare», he replied when asked if Argentina played dirty. His stance: compete with class, not noise. A stance that cuts against the noise of social media, where paranoia often fuels the debate.

What’s next for Argentina?

Scaloni’s side rolls into the showdown with Spain on a high. Their last result (1-2 vs England on 15-07-2026) proves their defensive steel and attacking punch. Now the task is to keep the momentum in a tournament where every inch counts.

De la Fuente closed with a practical tip: surround yourself with «great players and a top coaching staff». A reminder for an Albiceleste that, beyond the praise, knows the 2026 World Cup is won on the pitch.