A training-ground video that has surfaced online could leave Argentina fans holding their breath ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The players circled for a rondo, with Nicolas Otamendi in the middle. As the ball reached Lionel Messi, the Argentina defender attempted to snatch it. He went for the challenge and almost caught Messi’s leg. The captain somehow dodged the tackle, while Otamendi responded with a cheeky smile. With the final against Spain a few hours away, Lionel Scaloni could not afford any last-minute injury, especially to their best player, Messi.
After Kylian Mbappe struck a brace in the third-place match against eventual Bronze medal winners, England, Messi needs two goals in the title decider to match the Frenchman’s tally for the FIFA World Cup Golden Boot. He, however, would be more focused on helping his country win the fourth title, and his second.
Spain vs Argentina: Lionel Messi Trains Ahead Of FIFA World Cup 2026
The Argentina national football team had to wait for their final training session due to bad weather in New Jersey. After severe thunderstorms delayed practice, Lionel Messi and other Argentine footballers took the field. Footage circulated showing the defending champions trained in groups, while a 39-year-old Messi stole the show with his unmatched energy and passion. He will lead Argentina in the third World Cup final.
Leo Messi evading from Otamendi kick before the final 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/XxlfaZvLB1
— Epic Football (@epic_footy828) July 18, 2026
World Cup Final: Argentina Team News
Up against a strong Spanish side, featuring Lamine Yamal, Lionel Scaloni must be cautious about his strategy for the big final. He is expected to have a fully fit unit. Leandro Paredes and Cristian Romero have recovered from injury and appeared in good condition in the semi-final.
Rodrigo De Paul and Gonzalo Montiel might return to the starting lineup after Giuliano Simeone and Nahuel Molina’s underwhelming show. The forward line will be the same, with Lionel Messi operating as a playmaker, occasionally as a right winger, along with Julian Alvarez on the other flank.
