World Cup final: the report cards of the players of Spain and Argentina

Why it matters

Spain's victory in the 2026 World Cup final marks a significant triumph for the team, cementing its position among the elite of world football. This success not only represents an important affirmation for Spanish football, but also has a notable impact on the team's morale in view of future competitions, including upcoming club tournaments and World Cup qualifiers.

Context

Spain demonstrated defensive solidity and attacking creativity throughout the tournament, with players such as Pau Cubarsi shining with exceptional performances. This final also highlighted young talents like Lamine Yamal, who could play a crucial role in the future of the Spanish national team and in club competitions.

Key points

  • World Cup final: the report cards of the players of Spain and Argentina.
  • Spain triumphed 1-0 over Argentina in the World Cup final, with player ratings highlighting key performances from both teams.
  • World Cup final player ratings: How Spain and Argentina rated players - BBC Sport.
Spain won the world champion title by beating Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final, played in New Jersey. In this analysis, we look at the players' performances, evaluated by experts, and how they performed in this crucial match. **Spain** **Proprietary training** - **Unai Simon**: He took a risk in the opening minutes, but recovered well, helping to keep a clean sheet. *Rating: 7* - **Marc Cucurella**: He pushed forward and came close to scoring in a first half in which he showed great presence. *Rating: 7* - **Aymeric Laporte**: Solid in defence, he delivered an excellent performance, keeping the goal clean. *Rating: 7* - **Pau Cubarsi**: Played calmly and completed over 100 passes, becoming only the second player in history to do so in a World Cup final. *Rating: 8* - **Pedro Porro**: He actively participated in the action that led to the decisive goal. *Rating: 7* - **Fabian Ruiz**: Struggled in midfield, countering Argentine attacks. *Rating: 7* - **Rodri**: Excellent performance as captain, led the midfield. *Rating: 7* - **Alex Baena**: Showed aggression and made life difficult for the Argentine defense. *Rating: 7* - **Dani Olmo**: Created several chances, contributing to the Spanish victory. *Rating: 7* - **Lamine Yamal**: At just 19 years old, he finished the tournament with a gold medal around his neck and had his first chance in the final. *Rating: 7* - **Mikel Oyarzabal**: Although less influential, he finished the tournament as Spain's top scorer with five goals. *Rating: 7* **Substituted** - **Pedri** (62'): He brought freshness and vitality to the game. *Rating: 7* - **Ferran Torres** (62'): Scored the decisive goal in extra-time. *Rating: 8* - **Nico Williams** (75'): He had a notable impact, appearing dangerous every time he touched the ball. *Rating: 9* - **Mikel Merino** (75'): Helped maintain control in midfield. *Rating: 6* - **Eric Garcia** (99'): He fought well in defense. *Rating: 6* - **Martin Zubimendi** (99'): He did his duty in an important final. *Rating: 6* Image **Argentina** **Proprietary training** - **Emiliano Martinez**: Made an important save, keeping Argentina's hopes alive. *Rating: 6* - **Nicolas Tagliafico**: He defended with determination, but was unable to avoid defeat. *Rating: 6* - **Lisandro Martinez**: He had to leave the field due to injury, a heavy loss for the team. *Rating: 5* - **Cristian Romero**: He kept the Spanish attackers at bay, but received a yellow card. *Rating: 6* - **Gonzalo Montiel**: Showed good reactions in defense. *Rating: 6* - **Nico Gonzalez**: Replaced at half-time after a disappointing performance. *Rating: 5* - **Alexis Mac Allister**: He had questionable behavior and risked a card. *Rating: 5* - **Enzo Fernandez**: Expelled for a violent foul, he compromised the match for Argentina. *Rating: 4* - **Rodrigo De Paul**: He had no impact and gave way to a teammate. *Rating: 5* - **Julian Alvarez**: He failed to get noticed in a difficult final. *Rating: 5* - **Lionel Messi**: He struggled to find space and finished the tournament with eight goals, but couldn't avoid defeat. *Rating: 6* **Substituted** - **Nicolas Otamendi** (41'): He tried to give a boost after Lisandro's injury. *Rating: 5* - **Leandro Paredes** (46'): He entered with energy but was immediately booked. *Rating: 3* - **Nahuel Molina** (50'): Disappointing final for him. *Rating: 5* - **Facundo Medina** (70'): Was unable to contribute. *Rating: 4* - **Giovanni Simeone** (70'): Failed to influence the game. *Rating: 4* - **Marcos Senesi** (102'): He couldn't change the fate of the match. *Rating: 4* **Player of the Match** **Number:** 19 Yamal plates **Average rating:** 7.94 Spain writes a new page in the history of football, adding the world title to its already prestigious palmarès, while Argentina has to face the disappointment of a final that did not live up to expectations.

What happens now

With this victory, Spain prepares for a period of celebration and reflection, as the players focus on their club careers. The performance of some key players could influence their positions at their respective clubs and the coach's choices ahead of the next matches, as attention shifts towards preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the final score of the final between Spain and Argentina?

Spain won the final against Argentina with a score of 1-0.

How did this victory affect the World Cup ranking?

With this victory, Spain achieved the title of world champion.

Who scored the decisive goal in the final?

The decisive goal was scored by a player from Spain, but the name is not specified in the article.

When will Spain's next match be played?

The article does not specify Spain's next match.

Which Spanish players had the best ratings in the final?

Pau Cubarsi received the highest rating with 8, followed by other players with ratings of 7.

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