World Cup Final: Argentina vs Spain – Predictions and Awards

Argentina will face Spain in the upcoming World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday. The match follows Argentina’s exceptional comeback victory against England, marking Lionel Messi’s consecutive appearances in World Cup finals after his 2022 victory in Qatar. Meanwhile, Spain’s prodigy Lamine Yamal is set to make his debut in the final. Interestingly, although Messi and Yamal have not played against each other, they have crossed paths in a memorable photograph when Yamal was a baby.

After the final, individual awards such as the Golden Ball for the best player, the Golden Glove for the best goalkeeper, and the Golden Boot for the top goalscorer will be announced. Messi currently leads with eight goals and four assists, followed by Kylian Mbappe with eight goals and three assists, while Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham, and Harry Kane trail behind.

Who Will Win the World Cup Final?

Several opinions have emerged from football analysts regarding the winner of the World Cup final:

Phil Hay: Spain. With growing confidence and rhythm throughout the tournament, Spain seems poised for victory. Coach Luis de la Fuente’s tactics are ideal for them.

Carl Anka: Spain. Despite a slow start, Spain has found their form, and their possession style of play disrupts opponents’ morale.

Seb Stafford-Bloor: Spain. Argentina’s emotional game against England might not work against the more organized Spanish team.

Dermot Corrigan: Spain. They handled France comprehensively in the semi-final, showing a team on a mission.

Henry Bushnell: Spain. Their synchronized team performance in the semi-final was impressive, predicting a possible one-sided final.

Lukas Weese: Argentina. Spain’s performance was excellent, but Argentina’s comebacks make them feel like a team of destiny.

Stu James: Spain. While Argentina’s resilience and Messi’s presence are formidable, Spain’s cohesive performance could prevail.

Paul Tenorio: Argentina. With Messi’s legacy and ‘home field’ advantage, their determination could lead them to victory.

Are Spain and Argentina the Best Teams?

Football pundits have mixed views about whether Spain and Argentina are the top two teams globally:

Phil Hay: France remains strong despite losing, making the semi-final feel like the final before the final.

Seb Stafford-Bloor: Based on tournament performance, Spain and Argentina are top-ranked, yet France remains a powerhouse.

Dermot Corrigan: Performance and results both play a role, with Spain drawing parallels to their 2010 victory.

Carl Anka: Spain and Argentina’s ball-handling made them stand out in the tournament.

Henry Bushnell: France would be favorites against Argentina, indicating Spain and France are top contenders.

Lukas Weese: With Spain and France in the semi-final, these might have been the strongest teams.

Stu James: France could have beaten Argentina, with their semi-final draw being crucial.

Paul Tenorio: Despite Argentina’s talent, France appeared strongest until their semi-final.

Predictions for Individual Awards

The following predictions were made regarding individual awards:

Golden Boot: Many predict a tie between Messi and Mbappe, given their performance throughout the tournament.

Golden Ball: Lionel Messi is favored due to record-breaking performances, with FIFA likely recognizing his contributions to football.

Golden Glove: Unai Simon of Spain is the likely winner for conceding only one goal in seven games.

Best Young Player: Lamine Yamal is expected to win, though Pau Cubarsi’s performance was also praised.

Goal of the Tournament: Sidny Lopes Cabral’s goal against Argentina is highly praised, showcasing Cape Verde’s story.