World Champions Argentina to Face Spain in 'Finalissima' Clash in Qatar

Udaipur, Dec 19, 2025: The much-discussed Finalissima between European champions Spain and South American champions Argentina will be held in Qatar on March 27, 2026. The European and South American football confederations confirmed this in a joint statement on Thursday.

At the same time, Qatar’s Local Organizing Committee (LOC) announced Lusail Stadium as the venue for the match. This Finalissima will be special for Argentina, as it marks their return to the stadium where Lionel Messi’s team won the 2022 World Cup by defeating France.

The last Finalissima was played in 2022, when Argentina beat Italy, the European champions at the time, to win the title.

Argentina earned the chance to play the Finalissima again by winning the Copa America in 2024. Spain secured their place after lifting the Euro 2024 trophy. There had been a lot of discussion over the past year about this clash between the two champions, but until now, the date and venue were not officially confirmed.

Finalissima Set to Be a Key World Cup Warm-Up

Finally, the official announcement came today. The special attraction of this year’s Finalissima is not only Argentina’s return to Lusail Stadium, but also that it will serve as an important World Cup preparation match for two of the highest-ranked teams in world football.

Spain currently sit at No. 1 in the FIFA rankings, while Argentina are ranked second. The match will also showcase the biggest stars from both sides, with Lionel Messi, Barcelona’s former icon, facing Lamine Yamal, the club’s present sensation.

World Cup Groups After the Finalissima

Just two and a half months after the Finalissima, both teams will begin their World Cup campaign, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Spain have been placed in Group H, where they will face Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, and Cape Verde.

Argentina, on the other hand, will compete in Group J against Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.