The final pits defending champions Argentina against a Spain side seeking a second World Cup title after winning their maiden crown in 2010.
Argentina are aiming to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup, while the match is widely expected to be Messi’s final appearance at football’s biggest tournament.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni urged fans to cherish the opportunity to watch the 39-year-old forward on the world stage.
“He has made history. He is a legend,” Scaloni said of Messi, who captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022.
The South Americans have displayed remarkable resilience throughout the tournament, staging dramatic comebacks against Egypt in the Round of 16 and England in the semi-finals to book their place in the final.
Spain, meanwhile, have impressed with a disciplined campaign, conceding only one goal in seven matches and defeating France in the semi-finals.
Spain captain Rodri expects a physically demanding contest but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to adapt.
“It will be a more physical one, and we must be prepared. But I believe that if we are known for something in this national team, it is that we know how to play different games based on the moment,” he said.
On Saturday, England defeated France 6-4 to finish third, with French striker Kylian Mbappe becoming the tournament’s all-time leading scorer on 22 goals—one ahead of Messi.
Mbappe has also scored 10 goals at the 2026 World Cup, leading Messi by two in the race for the Golden Boot.
“I would have preferred not to be the all-time top scorer and to be playing tomorrow’s match,” Mbappe said.
The final will be played amid concerns over air quality caused by wildfire smoke drifting from Canada, although conditions are expected to improve before kick-off.
United States President Donald Trump is expected to attend the match alongside Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, with leaders of all three host nations set to be present.
The event will also feature a star-studded entertainment lineup, including actor Tom Cruise during the pre-match ceremony and performances by Madonna and Shakira at the tournament’s first-ever World Cup half-time show.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the competition as having “exceeded all expectations,” while Trump hailed it as “the most successful sporting event, maybe in the history of the world.”
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