Argentina faces explosive prediction in World Cup 2026 final

Spain are favorites to beat Argentina in Sunday’s 2026 World Cup final, according to Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazário. The ex-striker, a World Cup winner with Brazil and former Real Madrid star, predicted Spain will win "easily" over the Albiceleste at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The match follows Spain’s 2-1 semifinal victory over France, while Argentina edged England 2-1 on July 15 in the quarterfinals.

What did Ronaldo say about the clash?

Ronaldo Nazário, the World Cup’s all-time top scorer in a single tournament with eight goals at Korea/Japan 2002, stood by his claim on his digital channel ‘Rede Ronaldo’. “Spain beat Argentina easily. For me, France and Spain were always the favorites,” he said. The ex-Barcelona and Real Madrid forward pointed to Spain’s possession-based style, shaped by Pep Guardiola: “There’s a lot of Guardiola in it. I don’t think Argentina has the strength to come back against Spain, who will control possession the whole time.”

The Brazilian also praised Argentina’s path to the final. “They came from behind in several games, Messi is writing another beautiful World Cup story; it’s a team that shows character, fighting spirit and grit,” he added. The Albiceleste, champions in Qatar 2022, arrive in this final on a five-game winning streak, including a 2-1 win over England on July 15.

Spain in focus: can they make history?

Spain reach the final with a possession-heavy, build-up style rooted in the Guardiola era and now led by players like Rodri and Lamine Yamal. Luis de la Fuente’s side has been rock solid, averaging 62% possession in their last five games. Their latest result was a 3-0 win over the Netherlands in the semifinals, where Yamal scored twice.

Argentina, meanwhile, rely on speed and counterattacks. Lionel Messi, playing his fifth World Cup, has been pivotal with three goals and two assists in this tournament. Lionel Scaloni’s team remains unbeaten: five wins in five games, averaging 2.2 goals scored and just one conceded.

What comes after July 20?

If Ronaldo is right, Spain will claim their second World Cup title in 2026. La Roja hasn’t won a World Cup since South Africa 2010 and aim to match Brazil’s 1970 feat. Argentina, for their part, chase history as the first team to defend a World Cup title since Brazil in 1962. The match kicks off at 3:00 p.m. local time at MetLife Stadium, with an estimated audience of over 80 million viewers.

The Albiceleste arrive with momentum after beating England 2-1 on July 15, while Spain overcame France 2-1 in the semifinals. Two contrasting styles collide in a final set to make history.