The biggest-ever FIFA World Cup concludes tonight with a blockbuster final between Spain and Argentina. Both nations have shown exceptional quality and an inexhaustible competitive spirit to go all the way to the title decider. Ahead of what promises to be a captivating contest at New York New Jersey Stadium, we look at the individual duels which could prove decisive.

Argentina take on Spain, the country where Albiceleste skipper Lionel Messi made his name, in a FIFA World Cup final marked by a clash of styles. Here are some key stats regarding these two giants ahead of the blockbuster final.

At 39, Messi remains as influential as he was during Argentina's triumph in Qatar. His performance in the dramatic semifinal comeback against England once again underlined his enduring ability to shape the biggest occasions.

It is the FIFA World Cup 2026 top scorers against the tournament's meanest defence. With Argentina having netted 19 goals and Spain conceding just once over seven matches, both goalkeepers are likely to play major roles in tonight’s showpiece at New York New Jersey Stadium.

When Lionel Messi walks onto the pitch in New Jersey in the early hours of Monday (Bangladesh time) to face Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, the FIFA World Cup 2026 will reach its final act.

While Latin Americans have traditionally rallied behind football teams from the region who adadvance deep into the World Cup tournament, a flood of memes, jokes and criticism has made it clear there is one exception: Argentina.

Former Spain coach Vicente del Bosque believes Spain hold the edge ahead of the FIFA World Cup final against Argentina but has warned that the defending champions' resilience, experience and tactical discipline make them dangerous opponents.

There are rooftops draped in blue and white and murals of Lionel Messi everywhere -- but this is not Argentina, it is Bangladesh where football-crazy fans are again celebrating their unique bond with the South American giants.

Bangladesh star Hamza Choudhury has hailed Lamine Yamal as the best player in the world right now, backing the teenager to inspire Spain to victory against Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at the New York New Jersey Stadium.

Bangladesh star Hamza Choudhury has hailed Lamine Yamal as the best player in the world right now, backing the teenager to inspire Spain to victory against Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at the New York New Jersey Stadium.

Argentina will return to their iconic sky blue and white home strip for the FIFA World Cup final against Spain on Monday (1:00 am Bangladesh time), according to Argentine media reports.

Football's global governing body FIFA will assess match reports before deciding if they take any action over Argentina's players holding up a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" (The Falklands are Argentine) following their 2-1 victory over England.

Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic will officiate the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina on Sunday.

Lionel Messi engineered a spectacular comeback for Argentina against England in their World Cup semi-final on Thursday to keep his team on track for back-to-back titles.

Argentina staged yet another dramatic comeback at the FIFA World Cup 2026, defeating England 2-1 at Atlanta Stadium on Thursday to book their place in the final for the successive time.

"Speechless. This is a joy for our country and our people. The other day I said this group never ceases to amaze me, and tonight they proved it again."

Bangladesh star Hamza Choudhury backed Argentina to beat England in tonight’s 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal, saying “the greatest footballer of all time” Lionel Messi’s presence could prove decisive in Atlanta.

England coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed Tuesday that Declan Rice is fit to start in the World Cup semi-final against reigning champions Argentina.

Unlike Spain and France, who reached the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals by winning all six matches within regulation time, Argentina and England have endured a tougher route to the last four.

Argentina have been far from convincing at this World Cup. Yet every time they have been pushed to the brink, they have found a way through.