The 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches its grand conclusion this Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where Spain and Argentina face off as the final two teams remaining from the original field of 48 nations. This highly anticipated match serves as the climax to a 39-day tournament that saw more than six million fans attend matches across three host countries, including the United States, which hosted the event for the first time in decades. The final arrives as weather conditions improve in the Northeast, with skies clearing after several days of hazy smoke drifted southward from Canadian wildfires.
Argentina enters the stadium as the defending champion, aiming to become the first nation to secure back-to-back World Cup titles since Brazil accomplished the feat in 1958 and 1962. Despite Argentina's pedigree, Spain is currently slightly favored to win the match. If successful, it would mark Spain's second World Cup title. The two nations have a history on the world stage, having met 60 years ago during the 1966 World Cup, where Argentina defeated Spain 2-1 in the group stage. This appearance marks only the second time Spain has reached a final, with their previous trip in 2010 resulting in their inaugural World Cup win. Argentina, by contrast, has reached the final seven times, having secured victory in three of those previous attempts.
On the pitch, Spain enters the final with a reputation for exceptional midfield performance and a record-setting defense, having allowed only one goal across their first seven matches. Argentina remains a dangerous opponent, led by star player Lionel Messi, who is widely regarded as the Greatest of All Time. Throughout this tournament, Argentina has demonstrated a knack for securing dramatic last-minute comebacks.
The festivities begin with a pre-match closing ceremony at 1:30 p.m. ET, featuring musical performances by Post Malone and Robbie Williams, with Jennifer Hudson set to perform the national anthem. Actor Tom Cruise is also expected to make an appearance. The 11-minute halftime show will feature a star-studded lineup including Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber, and BTS. Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET.
The stands will be filled with global dignitaries, including the Spanish Royal Family and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. President Trump arrived at the stadium shortly before 2:30 p.m. via a Marine One helicopter flyover. He was spotted in his box alongside First Lady Melania Trump, FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of State Sean Duffy. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum was also present, having been invited by Mr. Trump amid ongoing trade discussions between the two nations.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul expressed strong confidence in the security measures implemented for the event, particularly given the high-profile guest list. Speaking to "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on Sunday, the governor noted that preparations have been underway for over a year. She highlighted that federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies have coordinated closely, conducting more than 1,000 exercises and table-topping various scenarios to ensure safety. The final match is being broadcast on FOX and Telemundo.
