The World Cup final between Argentina and Spain will kick off at 8pm tonight at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, but severe thunderstorms threaten to interrupt the match. The game has not been rescheduled despite flash floods that swept through New York and New Jersey over the weekend, with tornado warnings reported in some areas.
Flash floods cause chaos in New York and New Jersey
Yesterday, flash floods inundated parts of New York and New Jersey after 3 inches of rain fell in just a few hours. Dramatic images showed cars submerged and New Yorkers wading through floodwaters to safety. Water also flooded subway stations, causing delays at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The Yankees game was cancelled yesterday but is scheduled to be played this afternoon.
FIFA confirms final will go ahead
FIFA has confirmed that the World Cup final will proceed as scheduled. The open-air MetLife Stadium will host the match, with wildfire smoke from Canada also hanging over the city. Earlier this week, the New York Office of Emergency Management reported that air quality levels had reached 'very unhealthy' levels, though conditions have slightly improved.
High-profile attendees
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and the Spanish royal family will attend the final, watching from a VIP box. US President Donald Trump is also expected to be present and will hand over the World Cup trophy to the winners, having been absent throughout the rest of the tournament.
Messi's stirring message to Argentina
Earlier today, Lionel Messi sent a message to his Argentina teammates, saying, 'The nicest thing about all these years was never just the titles, but all the path. Share the day-to-day with this group, compete together, get up in the difficult moments and enjoy every step. Thanks to each of my teammates, the technical staff and all the people who work every day to keep this national team a family. Whatever happens tomorrow, this group has already written a story that we will never forget and that no one can erase. COME ON ARGENTINA.'
Match preview
Argentina faces Spain, who secured their spot in the final with a 2-0 victory over France. The match promises to be an incredible contest between two top sides.
