The 2026 FIFA World Cup final will see Spain take on Argentina — a thrilling clash between the reigning European champions and the current world champions — for football’s most coveted prize.

England will feel aggrieved to have missed out on the final after two late strikes from the South American giants overturned the match in a matter of moments.

The first goal, netted by Enzo Fernández, offers a valuable tactical lesson for Spain’s coaching staff to analyse ahead of Sunday’s showdown.

By the 85th minute, the Three Lions appeared fatigued and dropped deep, allowing Argentina to exploit the space outside the penalty area — a decision that ultimately proved fatal.

Lionel Messi’s team have now scored five goals from outside the box in this tournament, including the equaliser from their Chelsea star. No other team has managed as many long-range goals in a single World Cup.

Spain will be acutely aware that giving Messi and his teammates such freedom around the edge of the area could be disastrous in the final. Expect Luis de la Fuente’s men to close down those spaces more aggressively when the two sides meet for the ultimate prize.