After 39 days of intense competition, the World Cup is set to conclude.
Today, July 19th, the final match will pit Argentina against Spain, the reigning European champions, as Argentina seeks to defend their title from 2022. This match marks the first time legendary Argentine player Lionel Messi will face off against the emerging Spanish talent, Lamine Yamal.
Spain is on a quest for its second World Cup win, following its first triumph 16 years ago. Their journey to the final included victories over teams like Portugal, Belgium, and tournament favorites, France. Remarkably, they have only allowed one goal against them in seven matches.
This final could be Messi’s last appearance on the World Cup stage, but he hasn’t officially stated whether this will be his final tournament.
Argentina has had its share of nail-biting moments during the knockout stage, winning all their matches with goals scored late in the second half or during extra time. Their latest achievement was a thrilling 2-1 comeback against England in the semi-finals.
About 90 minutes before the match, a closing ceremony will celebrate the participation of all 48 countries. Performers will include Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, and Robbie Williams, with a special appearance by Tom Cruise.
Additionally, Jennifer Hudson will perform the U.S. national anthem, and halftime will showcase the first-ever halftime show in World Cup history, featuring artists from across the globe.
Match Details
The World Cup final is set to kick off at 3 PM ET.
How to Watch for Free
If you’re not connected to cable or an antenna, you can stream the World Cup Final free through various live TV services. DIRECTV offers a five-day free trial, which includes access to FOX and Telemundo among its lineup.
Halftime Show Performers
Justin Bieber, Madonna, BTS, and Shakira will headline the halftime show, which lasts for 11 minutes. Burna Boy will perform alongside the PS 22 Chorus, a group of public school children, directed by Gustavo Dudamel of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Chris Martin from Coldplay is expected to make an appearance as well.
Spain’s World Cup Journey
| Opponent | Result |
|---|---|
| Cape Verde (Group H) | 0-0 Draw |
| Saudi Arabia (Group H) | Spain 4, Saudi Arabia 0 |
| Uruguay (Group H) | Spain 1, Uruguay 0 |
| Austria (Round of 32) | Spain 3, Austria 0 |
| Portugal (Round of 16) | Spain 1, Portugal 0 |
| Belgium (Quarterfinals) | Spain 2, Belgium 1 |
| France (Semi-finals) | Spain 2, France 0 |
Argentina’s World Cup Journey
| Opponent | Result |
|---|---|
| Algeria (Group J) | Argentina 3, Algeria 0 |
| Austria (Group J) | Argentina 2, Austria 0 |
| Jordan (Group J) | Argentina 3, Jordan 1 |
| Cape Verde (Round of 32) | Argentina 3, Cape Verde 2 |
| Egypt (Round of 16) | Argentina 3, Egypt 2 |
| Switzerland (Quarterfinals) | Argentina 3, Switzerland 1 |
| England (Semi-finals) | Argentina 2, England 1 |
Spain’s World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers:
- David Raya
- Joan Garcia
- Unai Simon
Defenders:
- Marc Pavil
- Alejandro Grimaldo
- Eric Garcia
- Pedro Polo
- Aymeric Laporte
- Pau Kubalsi
- Marc Cucurella
Midfielders:
- Marcos Llorente
- Mikel Merino
- Fabian Ruiz
- Gabi
- Dani Olmo
- Jeremy Pino
- Alex Baena
- Rodri (captain)
- Martin Zvimendi
- Pedri
Forwards:
- Ferran Torres
- Nico Williams
- Lamine Yamal
- Mikey Oyarzabal
- Victor Muñoz
- Borja Iglesias
Argentina’s World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers:
- Juan Musso
- Geronimo Lulli
- Emiliano Martinez
Defenders:
- Nicholas Tagliafico
- Gonzalo Montiel
- Lisandro Martinez
- Cristian Romero
- Nicolas Otamendi
- Facundo Medina
- Nahuel Molina
Midfielders:
- Renandro Parade
- Rodrigo De Paul
- Valentin Barco
- Giovani Lo Celso
- Exequiel Palacios
- Thiago Almada
- Alexis Mac Allister
- Enzo Fernandez
Forwards:
- Julian Alvarez
- Lionel Messi (captain)
- Nico Gonzalez
- Giuliano Simeone
- Nico Pass
- Jose Manuel Lopez
- Lautaro Martinez
