World Cup final build-up as Spain take on Argentina

The biggest World Cup in history reaches its conclusion tonight beneath the bright lights of New Jersey, where Spain and Argentina meet for the greatest prize in football. Lionel Messi takes centre stage once more, chasing another piece of silverware in what may yet be his last appearance on the sport’s biggest stage. Spain arrive as the pre-tournament favourites, with Lamine Yamal, Rodri and a new generation looking to add to the trophy won in 2010. Argentina, led by Lionel Scaloni and inspired by Messi, have negotiated another demanding knockout run to stand one victory from retaining their crown. The contrast could hardly be more stark: Spain’s youthful fluency against Argentina’s battle-hardened champions, with the eyes of the world on the MetLife Stadium. Follow The i Paper’s live blog below for updates. How to watch the World Cup final Welcome! Sort: July 19, 2026 5:05 pmHow to watch the World Cup final Fans across the UK can watch the World Cup final live and free-to-air on both BBC One and ITV1, with streaming also available via BBC iPlayer and ITVX.Coverage on both broadcasters begins well before kick-off at 8pm BST, bringing you all the build-up, team news and expert punditry ahead of the biggest match in international football.Readers can also follow the action on The i Paper‘s website and app, with text commentary, analysis and reaction throughout the evening.However you choose to watch, you won’t want to miss a moment as Spain and Argentina battle to become world champions. July 19, 2026 5:00 pmWelcome! Lionel Messi has work to catch Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot (Photo: Getty)Hello and welcome to live coverage of the 2026 World Cup final as Spain take on Argentina at the MetLife Stadium with football’s biggest prize on the line.It’s the final act of a month-long tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico, and two of the competition’s standout teams have earned the chance to lift the trophy.Much of the attention will be on Lionel Messi as Argentina bid to retain the World Cup, with the captain hoping to add another remarkable achievement to an already extraordinary career.Standing in their way is a Spain side packed with talent, led by Lamine Yamal and Rodri, who have impressed throughout the tournament with their control, quality and composure.We’ll have all the build-up before kick-off, confirmed team news, live text commentary, analysis and reaction as the final unfolds, plus the best of your comments throughout the afternoon and evening.Can Argentina make history with back-to-back World Cup titles, or will Spain become world champions for the second time? Stay with us to find out.