The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final is almost complete, and Spain have received a huge boost ahead of their clash with defending champions Argentina.
After a brief injury scare involving teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, head coach Luis de la Fuente has confirmed that the Barcelona star is fully fit and available for selection. With no major injury concerns elsewhere in the squad, Spain are expected to field an unchanged starting XI as they chase a second FIFA World Cup title.
Quick Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | Spain vs Argentina |
| Competition | FIFA World Cup 2026 Final |
| Venue | MetLife Stadium |
| Spain Manager | Luis de la Fuente |
| Biggest Team News | Lamine Yamal fully fit |
| Expected Formation | 4-2-3-1 |
Lamine Yamal Fit for the Final
Spain supporters briefly feared the worst after Lamine Yamal appeared to struggle physically following the 2-0 semi-final victory over France.
The 19-year-old took a heavy challenge while winning the penalty converted by Mikel Oyarzabal.
Fortunately for La Roja, Luis de la Fuente quickly eased concerns by confirming that Yamal suffered only a knock and remains in excellent condition for the biggest match of his career.
Despite poor weather affecting Spain’s preparations in New Jersey, Yamal trained normally with the squad and is expected to start on the right wing.
Spain’s Biggest Boost
Yamal’s availability gives Spain their most dangerous attacking weapon as they prepare to face one of the tournament’s strongest defenses.
His pace, dribbling ability, and creativity could be decisive in breaking down Argentina’s back line.
Spain Expected to Keep Their Winning Formula
Luis de la Fuente is unlikely to make significant tactical changes after Spain’s impressive semi-final display.
Against France, Rodri and Fabián Ruiz completely controlled midfield, while Spain’s defensive organization prevented Kylian Mbappé and company from creating many clear chances.
The coach is expected to reward that performance by naming the same starting eleven.
Pedri Likely to Start on the Bench
One of the biggest talking points throughout the knockout stage has been Pedri’s limited role.
Despite being fully fit, the Barcelona midfielder is expected to begin the World Cup Final among the substitutes once again.
Spain are likely to continue with:
- Rodri
- Fabián Ruiz
as the double pivot behind an attacking quartet of:
- Lamine Yamal
- Dani Olmo
- Álex Baena
- Mikel Oyarzabal
The balance provided by Rodri and Ruiz has been one of Spain’s greatest strengths throughout the tournament.
Pedro Porro Also Expected to Start
Pedro Porro also dealt with a minor muscular issue earlier in the week.
However, the Tottenham full-back is expected to recover in time, meaning Spain should field the same defensive unit that has conceded just one goal during the tournament.
Spain Predicted Starting XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Unai Simón |
| Right Back | Pedro Porro |
| Centre Back | Pau Cubarsí |
| Centre Back | Aymeric Laporte |
| Left Back | Marc Cucurella |
| Defensive Midfield | Rodri |
| Defensive Midfield | Fabián Ruiz |
| Right Wing | Lamine Yamal |
| Attacking Midfield | Dani Olmo |
| Left Wing | Álex Baena |
| Striker | Mikel Oyarzabal |
Players to Watch
⭐ Lamine Yamal
The teenage sensation has been one of the breakout stars of the tournament. His speed, confidence, and creativity make him Spain’s biggest attacking threat.
⭐ Rodri
Rodri continues to dictate Spain’s rhythm from midfield. His passing range and positional awareness are fundamental to La Roja’s possession-based style.
⭐ Mikel Oyarzabal
Spain’s captain and leading striker has delivered in crucial moments, including his goal against France in the semi-final.
Tactical Battle Against Argentina
Spain are expected to rely on their familiar possession-based approach.
Keys to Victory
- Rodri controlling the tempo.
- Lamine Yamal attacking Argentina’s full-backs.
- Dani Olmo finding space between the lines.
- Quick defensive transitions to limit Lionel Messi.
- Maintaining the compact defensive structure that has conceded only one goal all tournament.
If Spain dominate possession while preventing Argentina from launching dangerous counterattacks, they will have an excellent opportunity to lift the World Cup.
Spain Predicted Bench
| Position | Players |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | David Raya |
| Defender | Alejandro Grimaldo |
| Midfielder | Pedri |
| Midfielder | Martín Zubimendi |
| Forward | Nico Williams |
| Forward | Ferran Torres |
Spain’s squad depth provides Luis de la Fuente with plenty of attacking and midfield options should tactical changes become necessary.
Key Takeaways
- Lamine Yamal has recovered fully and is expected to start.
- Pedro Porro is also likely to be available despite a minor injury concern.
- Spain are expected to keep the same lineup that defeated France.
- Rodri and Fabián Ruiz will anchor midfield once again.
- Pedri is likely to begin the World Cup Final on the bench.
Final Thoughts
Spain head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final with confidence, momentum, and a fully fit squad. Luis de la Fuente has little reason to change the team that comfortably defeated France, and continuity could prove to be one of La Roja’s greatest strengths.
With Rodri orchestrating midfield, Lamine Yamal providing attacking brilliance, and one of the tournament’s best defensive records, Spain appear well equipped for their biggest challenge yet. Standing in their way is Lionel Messi and Argentina, setting the stage for a World Cup Final that promises to be remembered for years to come.
