Hours before Argentina face Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, captain Lionel Messi posted on Instagram that the Albiceleste has already written a story no one can erase. The 39-year-old included a photo of the squad during the North American tournament alongside his message.

What did Messi say ahead of the final?

Messi stressed that the trophies weren’t the point-it was the journey. “Sharing each day with this group, competing together, picking ourselves up in tough moments and enjoying every step” were the real highlights, he wrote. He also thanked teammates, the coaching staff and everyone who keeps the national team like a family.

“Whatever happens tomorrow, this group has already written a story we’ll never forget and that no one can erase”, the captain concluded. His post ended with a “¡VAMOS ARGENTINA!” that echoed among fans.

Argentina’s 2026 World Cup run so far

La Albiceleste reaches the final after four years of waiting: in 2022, under Lionel Scaloni, they lifted the trophy in Qatar. Since then, the team has not lost a final. In 2021 they won the Copa América in Brazil, in 2024 they repeated the title in the United States and in 2022 they claimed the Finalissima.

In this 2026 edition, the Albiceleste haven’t tasted defeat in their last five matches (5W-0D-0L). Their most recent result was a 2-1 win over England on July 15, 2026, sealed by goals from Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández.

Spain chase a second crown in 16 years

La Roja arrives chasing the title they won in South Africa 2010. Their path included tight wins like the 1-0 over Portugal in the quarterfinals and the 2-1 over Germany in the semifinals. Now, Luis de la Fuente’s side will try to end Scaloni’s unbeaten run in finals.

Messi, playing his sixth World Cup, remains the key man. With standout performances in every game, the captain made it clear his legacy goes beyond trophies: “The best part was never just the trophies, but everything along the way.”

What’s next?

A win would make Scaloni only the second Argentine coach after César Luis Menotti to repeat as world champions. The final kicks off this Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford at 3:00 p.m. local time. In Argentina it will air on TyC Sports and in Spain on La 1 de TVE.

The 2026 World Cup final promises a tactical battle between two teams that fought their way to the top with grit and heart. While Spain seeks historic revenge, Argentina aims to cement its dynasty with another title.