In the run-up to the 2026 World Cup final, where the national teams of Argentina and Spain will face off, the sports world is recalling the history of their confrontations. The Argentines, already three-time world champions, are aiming to win a fourth title. The Spaniards, who have one World Cup trophy to their name, are striving to add another line to their history of victories. Between these two giants of world football, seven decisive matches have already taken place, each becoming part of legend.
The Birth of a Legend: Uruguay vs Argentina (1930)
The history of finals involving the Argentines began at the very first World Cup, held in Uruguay. In the decisive match, the hosts met their neighbors from Argentina. The match turned into a real goal-scoring shootout, where the Uruguayans emerged victorious with a score of 4-2. Goals were scored by Dorado, Ceá, Iriarte, and Castro against Piroselli and Stábile.
First Gold: Argentina vs Netherlands (1978)
The "Albiceleste" had to wait almost half a century for the next final. In 1978, the Argentine national team met the Netherlands. Regular time did not reveal a winner, but in extra time, the Argentines squeezed the opponent and became world champions for the first time in history. Decisive goals were scored by Kempes (two goals) and Bertoni against Nanninga.
The Maradona Era: Argentina vs Germany (1986)
In 1986, the Argentines and Germans produced a frantic shootout. The "Bundesmannschaft" managed to come back from a 0-2 deficit, but Maradona and his team ultimately became the winners. Although Diego Armando did not score in the final, he was named the best player of the tournament and provided the assist for Burruchaga's decisive goal. The final score was 3-2.
Replay of the Final: Germany vs Argentina (1990)
At the very next World Cup, the final was repeated, but this time the Germans celebrated the victory. The Argentines did not demonstrate such bright football and finished the final with only nine players. The only goal of the match was a controversial penalty converted by Andreas Brehme.
Spain's Triumph: Spain vs Netherlands (2010)
Spain played its first World Cup final in history in South Africa. The "Furia Roja" defeated the Netherlands national team. The decisive goal in the 116th minute was scored by Andrés Iniesta. Since then, Spanish fans have been waiting for a second final — and finally, they have waited it out.
Battle for Gold: Germany vs Argentina (2014)
At the World Cup in Brazil, Germany and Argentina fought for the "gold." This was already the third meeting of these national teams in a decisive World Cup match. The final turned out to be tough and tense. Argentina held on until extra time, but Mario Götze brought victory to the "Bundesmannschaft" in the 113th minute. It is worth noting that Messi was not in his best form at the time due to health issues.
A New Era: Argentina vs France (2022)
At the last World Cup, the Argentine national team produced an extremely high-scoring final against France. Captain and leader of the "Albiceleste" Lionel Messi scored a brace (another goal was scored by Di María), while Kylian Mbappé recorded a hat-trick. The fate of the gold medals was decided by a penalty shootout, where the main hero was the Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. Argentina became a three-time world champion.
This history of seven finals highlights the high level of skill of both teams and their desire to win. The 2026 World Cup final promises to be no less exciting than previous encounters.
