AFCON 2025
Argentina stand one win away from retaining the FIFA World Cup as they prepare to face Spain in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The reigning world champions head into the showdown led by the evergreen Lionel Messi, who has once again been the heartbeat of Lionel Scaloni’s side throughout the tournament. Standing in their way, however, is a youthful and fearless Spain team that has dazzled with its possession-based football and relentless pressing.
With the biggest prize in football on the line, Argentina will need to deliver another near-perfect performance if they are to leave New Jersey with back-to-back World Cup titles.
Here are three key areas that could decide the final.
Win the Midfield Battle
Spain’s greatest weapon has been their ability to dominate possession. Their technically gifted midfield dictates the tempo of matches, patiently moving opponents around before exploiting spaces.
Argentina cannot afford to get drawn into an open battle for possession. Instead, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister and their midfield partners must remain compact, deny central spaces and force Spain into wider areas where they are less dangerous.
Equally important will be winning second balls and transitioning quickly. Argentina have looked at their most dangerous throughout the tournament when defending deep before launching rapid counter-attacks. Allow Spain to control the rhythm for long periods, and the defending champions could find themselves chasing shadows.
Create the Conditions for Messi to Decide the Game
At 39, Lionel Messi continues to prove why he is regarded as one of football’s greatest players.
The Argentine captain has once again delivered in decisive moments, combining creativity, composure and clinical finishing to inspire his country to another World Cup final.
For Argentina to maximise his influence, the supporting cast must do their part. Intelligent movement from Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez can create pockets of space for Messi between Spain’s defensive lines, while the midfield must ensure he receives the ball in dangerous positions rather than forcing him to drop too deep.
Protecting Messi from Spain’s aggressive pressing will also be crucial. If he is constantly isolated or forced into defensive work, Argentina risk losing the attacking spark that has carried them through the competition.
Take Advantage of Set-Pieces and Stay Defensively Disciplined
World Cup finals are often decided by fine margins, and Argentina must be ready to capitalise on every opportunity.
The South Americans possess aerial strength and have consistently posed a threat from corners and free-kicks throughout the tournament. Making those moments count could prove decisive against a Spain side that is expected to dominate possession.
Defensively, concentration will be non-negotiable. Spain’s dynamic attackers, led by the exciting Lamine Yamal, are capable of punishing even the slightest lapse. Argentina’s backline must remain organised, resist the temptation to overcommit and exploit any turnovers created by Spain’s high defensive line with swift counter-attacks.
