Spain and Argentina are once again on a collision course for a rematch of the chaotic World Cup 2026 final. And it's a lot sooner than many might have anticipated, with bosses hoping to stage another encounter between the international titans this year.
Background to the Rematch
The two powerhouses were initially scheduled to meet for the 2026 Finalissima earlier this year when they were set to face off in Qatar as champions of Euro 2024 and the 2025 Copa America. However, that fixture was called off due to the Iran conflict, with the two teams failing to agree on an alternative host venue.
It mattered little in the end as they eventually both made it to Sunday's final. And Spain came out on top in a controversial 1-0 extra-time win, which led to brawls breaking out after the final whistle and two Argentina players being sent off.
FIFA's Plans and Potential Dates
La Nacion and ESPN Argentina have reported FIFA plans to stage a replay before the year is out, however. There is hope the Finalissima will go ahead after all, with two potential openings left to stage the matchup before the end of 2026.
FIFA has two international match windows remaining this year, with the first held between September 21 and October 6, while the last one takes place between November 9 and 17. And it's reported world football's governing body is more likely to bring the two teams back together in that latter option.
Hosting and Logistical Challenges
Qatar's government still holds the rights to the 2026 Finalissima and intends to host the game when it is played. However, that will be dictated by the status of tensions between the United States, Israel and Iran at the time.
Another major obstacle is the fact Spain already have two fixtures locked in the calendar for the November international window. The new world champions are due to face England and the Czech Republic in their final round of UEFA Nations League group games. Delaying these fixtures would mean a serious impact on other nations' plans and participation. That complicates any hopes Luis de la Fuente's team may have of competing in the Finalissima before the year is complete.
The September-October window is even more difficult logistically for La Roja. Spain are currently scheduled to play four Nations League fixtures over a span of 11 days during that opening, making it all but impossible for the Argentina rematch to take place then.
Fallout from the Final
Tensions between the two teams were incredibly high in Sunday's decider. Argentina copped criticism for their thuggish tactics in New Jersey, which were epitomised by Leandro Paredes assaulting Spanish opponents Eric Garcia and Gavi after the full-time whistle. Both he and team-mate Enzo Fernandez could be suspended for the Finalissima following their red cards in the final. However, the two continental kingpins will be heavily motivated to get one over the other in the wake of the sad World Cup scenes.
