New jersey-new york: Hearts pound and breaths catch in throats as the final countdown begins. Spain and Argentina are just a day away from colliding in a blockbuster World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, where one side will lift the trophy in glory and the other will be left with nothing but silver.
According to TRTworld.com, Spain cruised to the final after delivering a football masterclass against France, defeating them 2-0. Prior to the tournament, La Roja was TRT World's top pick for favorites to win the World Cup. Spain has been giving gradually convincing wins throughout the tournament after their first draw against Cape Verde, mirroring their pathway in 2010 after their first game that ended in a draw. They ended up winning the trophy that year.
On the other hand, Argentina, avoiding one scare after another, crawled their way to the final at the back of yet another stunning late 2-1 comeback victory against England. TRT World also identified Argentina as one of the top favorites to win the tournament. The Argentine squad is battle-tested enough to go far in the tournament, and brushing them off would be a mistake. As proven in the knockout stage, brushing them off was indeed a gigantic mistake for all teams they faced.
Spain has primarily lined up in a 4-3-3, although it often morphs into a 3-2-5 in possession. The star player for Spain is the system itself, regardless of the names on the pitch. They utilize multiple approaches that decrypt opponents' every move. Possession, control through midfield, high pressing, wide overloads, and defensive discipline characterize Spain's play. They have kept the strongest defense in the tournament, having conceded only one goal against Belgium.
Speaking about the much-anticipated match, coach Luis de la Fuente says that Argentina deserves high praise and respect for reaching this far. Captain Rodri anticipates Sunday's match to be "quite different," emphasizing the need for physical preparation.
Argentina has primarily operated in a 4-3-3 when attacking or a 4-4-2 without the ball. They have capitalized on multiple tools that made them perform several comebacks. Adaptability, Messi's genius, aggressive pressing, and fast transitions are key elements of Argentina's play. Head coach Lionel Scaloni praised Spain and coach de la Fuente, highlighting their long-standing relationship from Spain's coaching program.
Spain is chasing a second World Cup crown after their triumph in South Africa in 2010, hoping to cement a new golden generation. Argentina, meanwhile, aims to add another star to their famous jersey. The final promises a tactical chess match between two sides that have reached the final by mastering different routes to victory. Millions of supporters will turn their attention to the showdown, knowing that 90 minutes, or perhaps longer, will determine who lifts the most coveted trophy in world football.