Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has named his starting lineup for today's World Cup final against Spain, with Gonzalo Montiel replacing Nahuel Molina at right-back. The match kicks off at 8pm BST at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Argentina's confirmed XI
The team lines up in a 4-1-3-2 formation: Emiliano Martinez in goal; Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico in defence; Rodrigo De Paul in the holding role; Nico Gonzalez, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister in midfield; Julian Alvarez and Lionel Messi up front.
Argentina are aiming to become only the third nation to successfully defend a World Cup title, after Italy (1934, 1938) and Brazil (1958, 1962). They advanced to the final after a dramatic semi-final comeback against England, winning 3-2.
Injury update and selection decisions
According to team sources, Argentina have no new injury concerns following the semi-final. Scaloni faced several selection dilemmas after substitutes impressed against England. Montiel's strong performance off the bench earned him a starting spot, while Tagliafico continues ahead of Facundo Medina at left-back.
Emiliano Martinez retains his place as goalkeeper despite recent criticism. The centre-back pairing of Romero and Lisandro Martinez remains unchanged, with Romero having faced scrutiny from pundits including Gary Neville.
Messi leads the charge
Captain Lionel Messi, 38, is seeking to cap his international career with a second consecutive World Cup victory. He was instrumental in the semi-final, scoring one goal and assisting another in the comeback win. Scaloni said: "Leo is the best in history. He inspires everyone around him."
Spain will pose a formidable challenge, having won all six matches en route to the final. Argentina's starting lineup shows no major surprises, with the Premier League midfield trio of Fernandez (Chelsea), Mac Allister (Liverpool), and De Paul (Atletico Madrid) retaining their places.
