Ahead of Sunday's FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium, a Fox Sports analyst has warned that poor air quality caused by Canadian wildfire smoke could affect the match, potentially disadvantaging Argentina against Spain's possession-based playing style. Wildfire smoke has pushed air quality across the north-eastern and Midwestern United States into unhealthy ranges, raising concerns for players and organisers just as the tournament reaches its climax.

The concerns echo similar worries raised by baseball players from the Mets and Phillies, who have also described playing in the smoky conditions as unwise. Spain have reportedly already trained through the New Jersey smoke in their final preparations. Separately, Argentina's president is not expected to attend the final, reportedly for superstitious reasons, while pundits continue to debate the tactical and personal narratives surrounding the game, including Lionel Messi's leadership role for Argentina.