Argentina and Spain set to meet in first all-Spanish-speaking World Cup final
Argentina defeated England 2-1, while Spain beat France 2-0 in the semifinals, securing a historic final between the reigning World Cup and European champions.
Argentina and Spain will contest the FIFA World Cup final, the tournament's first all-Spanish-speaking showdown since its inception in 1930. Argentina overcame England 2-1, with Enzo Fernández scoring the equaliser in the 85th minute and Lionel Messi providing the assist for Lautaro Martínez’s late winner. Spain defeated France 2-0 after a penalty was awarded when 19-year-old Lamine Yamal was fouled by Lucas Digne; Mikel Oyarzabal converted the spot-kick and Pedro Porro added a second goal in the second half.
Spain’s midfield, anchored by Dani Olmo, Rodri and Fabián Ruiz, dominated the game, while the defence limited France’s attacks, allowing only limited chances for Kylian Mbappé. France coach Didier Deschamps faced criticism for tactical choices and a midfield that struggled after injuries, and he will manage the third-place match before Zinedine Zidane takes over the national team.
Argentina relied less on Messi than in earlier rounds, with Fernández’s long-range strike breaking the deadlock. Messi’s involvement continued his record of contributing a goal or assist in 11 consecutive World Cup matches, a streak dating back to 2022. England’s manager Thomas Tuchel made defensive adjustments late in the match, but the changes were insufficient to prevent Argentina’s comeback.