Argentina on the brink of unique World Cup record as Spain stand between Lionel Messi and back-to-back titles | Football News

Argentina head into the FIFA World Cup 2026 final against Spain with history within touching distance as Lionel Scaloni’s side stand one goal away from setting a new tournament record for strikes from outside the penalty area.The defending champions have already scored five goals from outside the box, equalling the highest tally by any team in a single FIFA World Cup. Lionel Messi has contributed two of those long-range efforts, while Giovani Lo Celso, Julian Alvarez and Enzo Fernandez have one each. Messi also surpassed Brazil great Rivellino to become the player with the most World Cup goals scored from outside the penalty area.Now, Argentina have the chance to claim that record outright when they face UEFA Euro 2024 champions Spain in Sunday’s final at New York New Jersey Stadium.Argentina booked their place in the title clash with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in the semifinals. After trailing at the break, Enzo Fernandez restored parity before Lautaro Martinez struck a stoppage-time winner to send the reigning champions into a second straight World Cup final.Spain, meanwhile, reached their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 2010 after a composed 2-0 victory over France. Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty won by Lamine Yamal before Pedro Porro sealed the result after the interval, with Spain’s disciplined defence recording its sixth clean sheet in seven matches.Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expects an entertaining showdown, describing the final as “a cracking match” between two teams that share a similar philosophy built on quality, talent and attacking football.Scaloni echoed that respect, insisting Argentina must produce their “best version” to retain the title. The Argentina boss also hailed Messi’s remarkable longevity, saying the 39-year-old’s journey to yet another World Cup final adds another extraordinary chapter to the legacy of one of football’s greatest-ever players.With the trophy and a unique World Cup record both on the line, Argentina have every reason to believe history could be made once again.