Former Chelsea midfielder Craig Burley has backed Argentina to overcome Spain in Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey.
The defending champions head into the final on a 13-match winning run after producing a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in Wednesday’s semi-final in Atlanta.
England appeared set for victory after Anthony Gordon’s second-half strike, but Argentina responded with two late goals. Enzo Fernandez levelled the score from a Lionel Messi assist before substitute Lautaro Martinez headed home another Messi cross seven minutes later to seal the win.
Spain, meanwhile, secured their place in the final with a 2-0 victory over France and will be chasing a second World Cup title.
Burley, however, believes Argentina will come out on top.
“The Argentinians will try to get under the skin of the Spaniards even more. I think De Paul will play [ahead of Simeone].
“Sometimes he goes over the edge, but he’s a brilliant player. It was way easier than we expected for Spain against France. I don’t think Argentina will allow the same to happen. Brilliant game, 3-2 to Argentina.”
Spain won their only World Cup title in 2010 after defeating the Netherlands 1-0 in extra time, while Argentina lifted their third crown at Qatar 2022 with a penalty shootout victory over France.
