Argentina’s Lineup for the 2026 World Cup Final Against Spain
As Argentina prepares to face Spain in the 2026 World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium, coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed the starting eleven. The team, aiming for a historic second consecutive championship, will make three key changes from the squad that triumphed over England in the semifinals.
Confirmed Starting Eleven
Argentina’s lineup will feature:
- Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez
- Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico
- Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Nico González
- Forwards: Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez
Coach: Lionel Scaloni
Substitutes: The bench will include Juan Musso, Gerónimo Rulli, Marcos Senesi, Nahuel Molina, Nicolás Otamendi, Facundo Medina, Giuliano Simeone, Valentín Barco, Giovani Lo Celso, Exequiel Palacios, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, Nico Paz, José Manuel López, and Lautaro Martínez.
Notable Changes in the Lineup
Scaloni’s decision to make changes comes after the thrilling 2-1 victory against England.
Gonzalo Montiel replaces Nahuel Molina at right-back. Montiel returns to the starting lineup for his third final with the national team, having previously played pivotal roles in Copa América finals against Brazil and Colombia.
Rodrigo De Paul reclaims his spot in the midfield, taking the place of Giuliano Simeone, who filled in during the England match. This will mark De Paul’s sixth start of the tournament.
Nico González will feature from the beginning, stepping in for Leandro Paredes. This represents González’s first start in this World Cup after being a substitute in previous matches.
Strategic Insights
With Montiel’s experience in finals and De Paul’s proven ability to control the midfield, Argentina hopes to leverage these changes effectively against a formidable Spanish side. Nico González’s inclusion aims to enhance the attacking options on the left flank, providing pace and creativity.
Importantly, eight players from Argentina’s previous final against France in December 2022 will return, including stalwarts like Emiliano Martínez, Lionel Messi, and Cristian Romero. This blend of experience and adjusted strategy is crucial for facing Spain’s well-balanced lineup.
Spain’s Counterpart
On the flip side, Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente maintains continuity with the same eleven that outperformed France in their semifinals. Players such as Unai Simón, Aymeric Laporte, and Dani Olmo will anchor a determined Spanish squad looking to reclaim their place at the top of world football.
Kit Highlights
In a nostalgic nod to their past successes, Argentina will don their iconic light blue and white shirt paired with white shorts and socks, reminiscent of their triumphs on the world stage. Keep an eye on Emiliano Martínez’s contrasting green goalkeeper kit, akin to the one worn during their previous championship success.
Conclusion
With the final approaching, Argentina’s blend of experience, tactical adjustments, and squad depth will be paramount in their quest for glory. The anticipation builds as fans from both sides prepare for what promises to be an electrifying showdown at the MetLife Stadium.
News in development…