Saviola predicts Argentina vs Spain in 2026 World Cup final
Barcelona and Argentina legend Javier Saviola has tipped defending champions Argentina and Spain to meet in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, kicks off on June 11, 2026. Saviola, speaking to Spanish outlet Marca, believes Lionel Messi’s presence makes Argentina a top contender to become the first nation in 64 years to successfully defend the title, last achieved by Brazil in 1958 and 1962. He praised Messi for lifting the pressure of never having won the World Cup and now playing with freedom. Both Argentina and Spain have already secured qualification and are placed in separate groups, meaning they can only clash in the final. Saviola expressed hope for an Argentina-Spain showdown in the later stages. Messi secured his World Cup legacy in 2022, completing football’s major trophies with both club and country. For Nigerian fans following the global tournament, this prediction centers on Messi's potential legacy-defining moment. The Super Eagles are separately pursuing qualification through the CAF playoffs. Do you see Argentina successfully defending the title, or will another nation like Spain, France, or England break their run?