One of the most anticipated matchups in international soccer features Argentina against Spain, a showdown designed to determine the reigning champion between South America and Europe. The long-discussed meeting is the Finalissima, a match that has repeatedly been delayed but now reportedly has both a venue and a date confirmed for 2026, before the FIFA World Cup.
According to Gaston Edul, Argentina and Spain are set to face each other on March 27, 2026, in Qatar, with the match scheduled to be played at Lusail Stadium, the same venue where Argentina lifted the World Cup trophy in 2022. Notably, both national teams could also cross paths again during the World Cup itself, potentially as early as the round of 16, adding even more intrigue to an already marquee international clash.
The RFEF has already acknowledged the agreement for the match, with federation president Rafael Louzan confirming that the deal is in place and only awaits formal communication. âWe reached an agreement with UEFA,â Louzan said when speaking to the media. He added that the final step is an official announcement, noting, âWe are just waiting for the formal confirmation.â
The March edition, which is expected to feature Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal as headline figures, would mark another chapter in a matchup that has gained significant relevance in recent years. The Finalissima is increasingly viewed as a marquee international event and one that could become a permanent fixture on the global soccer calendar.
Lionel Messi of Argentina lifts the Finalissima trophy.
Two straight Finalissimas for Argentina
The Finalissima returned to the international calendar in 2022, when Argentina defeated Italy 3-0 at Wembley Stadium. Since then, CONMEBOL and UEFA have worked to ensure continuity for the clash between continental champions, making this the second time in the decade that Argentina would compete in the Finalissima, now aiming for a historic back-to-back title.
see also
Lionel Messi shows humility with message in English about Inter Miamiâs successful season
The Finalissimaâs history before its return
The competition, which pits the champions of the Copa America against the winners of the UEFA European Championship, replaced the former Copa Artemio Franchi, which was held twice, in 1985 and 1993. Those editions were won by France and Argentina, respectively.
In the most recent of those early editions, played in Mar del Plata, Diego Armando Maradona lifted his final trophy with Argentina. That match ended 1-1 against Denmark, before Argentina prevailed 5-4 in the penalty shootout, closing a historic chapter in international soccer.
