Spain and Argentina, ranked as the world's top two international sides, met in the 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday, in a fixture billed as historic for pitting the reigning champions of South America against those of Europe for the first time. Argentina reached the final via a dramatic stoppage-time comeback against England, while Spain progressed with a convincing semi-final win over France, setting up a contest between two contrasting footballing philosophies.

The final pitted Spain's highly organised, collectively drilled defence and team-based approach against Argentina's more individually driven attacking threat, with pundits noting both sides were well placed to exploit their respective strengths. Slovenian official Slavko Vincic took charge of the match, becoming the first Slovenian referee to officiate a World Cup final.