Soccer

Report: Finalissima between Argentina and Spain already has potential date, with venue still in debate

A tentative date has been reported for the Finalissima between Argentina and Spain, though the location has yet toĀ beĀ determined.

Messi-Argentina and Lamine Yamal-Spain
Ā© Justin Setterfield / GettyMessi-Argentina and Lamine Yamal-Spain

One of the most highly anticipated matchups in recent years is inching closer to reality, as global fans continue to call for a clash between two of the most electrifying national teams in world soccer. Argentina, the undisputed kings of collective play and international dominance over the past five years, could soon face Spain, a rejuvenated squad fueled by youth, talent, and the emergence of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

While no official venue has been set, a tentative date window has been reported. According to journalist Ignacio Marcano of Cadena SERā€˜s Carrusel Americano via X (formerly Twitter), the Finalissima between Argentina and Spain is set to be played between March 26 and 31, 2026. CONMEBOL reportedly prefers hosting the match in South America, but there’s also a strong possibility it could return to Europe due to travel logistics during the middle of the club season.

Logistically, staging the game in Europe makes sense, as the vast majority of players from both squads currently play in European leagues. However, if merit were the deciding factor, Argentina may have the edge, given their remarkable run of titles and dominance on the international stage.

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Holding the match in South America would also bring unparalleled energy to the event, with Argentina’s passionate fan base likely to create an unforgettable atmosphere. Facing off against a rising Spanish side could add even more significance to the event, as it pits reigning world champions against potential future rulers of the game.

Lionel Messi lifting the Finalissima trophy

Lionel Messi of Argentina lifts the Finalissima trophy after the victory during the 2022 Finalissima match between Italy and Argentina at Wembley Stadium on June 01, 2022 in London, England.

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UEFA and CONMEBOL confirm meeting to start organizing Finalissima

UEFA and CONMEBOL have confirmed that talks are underway to finalize the details of the Finalissima. AFA president Claudio Tapia and RFEF president Rafael Louzan met this week for their first official discussion on the event. While no potential venues were announced, the meeting marked a key step toward bringing the highly anticipated soccer match to life.

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This will be the fourth edition of the Finalissima, and the third consecutive appearance for Argentina, who previously competed in 1993, 2022, and 2024. Argentina also holds the record for most titles in the tournament, having lifted the trophy twice. The 2026 edition could be especially historic, potentially marking the first on-field meeting between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal—a generational clash that would captivate global audiences.

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Following the meeting, CONMEBOL president Alejandro DomĆ­nguez posted on his official X account: ā€œA pleasure to meet my friend Rafael Louzan, president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation! We’ve already begun preparations for the Finalissima between Argentina and Spain, a joint effort between CONMEBOL, UEFA, AFA, and RFEF. We can’t wait for this great match!ā€

Argentina vs Spain match history: recent results

Despite Argentina’s recent international dominance, Spain hold the edge in their most recent head-to-head meetings. La Roja have won three of the last five encounters, including a resounding 6-1 victory in their most recent clash—a result that left a lasting impression.

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This time, however, could be different. Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina project has shown remarkable consistency and resilience. The Albiceleste come into the match as reigning champions after defeating Italy in the 2022 Finalissima. Yet Spain’s new generation is eager to rewrite the script, and led by prodigies like Yamal, they may just be ready to challenge the kings.

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