Toni Kroos Predicts Spain to Triumph Over Argentina in FIFA World Cup 2026 Final
Kroos Backs Spain for World Cup Glory
New York [US], July 19: Toni Kroos, the former midfielder for Germany and Real Madrid, has expressed his belief that Spain will emerge victorious in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, where they are set to face off against the defending champions, Argentina, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey this Sunday.
As reported by a leading sports outlet, Kroos, who was part of the 2014 FIFA World Cup-winning team, cites Spain's tactical discipline, consistency, and high performance levels as key factors that give Luis de la Fuente's squad an advantage in this crucial match.
Having spent a significant part of his career at Real Madrid, Kroos is familiar with Spanish football and many players in the current lineup. His prediction is grounded in Spain's balanced team dynamics, midfield control, and organized style of play, which he believes have distinguished them as the top team in the tournament.
Spain enters the final after an impressive run, having conceded only one goal throughout the tournament and achieving a historic six clean sheets, a first in men's World Cup history.
After an unexpected goalless draw against Cape Verde in their opening match, La Roja has bounced back with six consecutive wins, eliminating teams like Austria, Portugal, Belgium, and France to reach their first World Cup final since their 2010 victory.
Under the guidance of Luis de la Fuente, Spain remains unbeaten in their last 37 matches. A win against Argentina would not only secure their second World Cup title but also set a new record for the longest unbeaten streak by a European men's national team.
On the other hand, Argentina arrives in New Jersey with their own momentum. Lionel Scaloni's squad showcased their resilience in the semifinals, coming from behind to defeat England 2-1, with Enzo Fernandez equalizing and Lautaro Martinez scoring a dramatic winner in stoppage time.
The defending champions have achieved 14 consecutive victories, matching the longest winning streak for a South American team, and they aim to be the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend their World Cup title.
Argentina's journey to the final has been marked by their ability to perform under pressure, needing extra time or late comebacks in all four knockout matches. They have also set a tournament record by scoring eight goals after the 85th minute.
Historically, the two teams have faced each other 14 times, with an even record of six wins for each side and two draws. Argentina won their only World Cup encounter 2-1 in 1966, while Spain claimed a dominant 6-1 victory in their last meeting during a friendly in 2018.
Kroos' endorsement adds another layer of intrigue to a final filled with compelling narratives, as he joins a growing list of football figures predicting that Spain will dethrone Argentina. Ultimately, the outcome will be determined on the pitch as these two footballing powerhouses vie for the sport's most coveted trophy.