Barcelona icon Javier Saviola has revealed his dream final for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, backing a showdown between holders Argentina and a resurgent Spain.
With both nations topping their respective qualifying groups, they are on a collision course that could see them meet in the tournament’s final stages in North America.
Saviola believes Lionel Scaloni’s squad remains the team to beat, largely due to the presence of Lionel Messi.
After “completing football” with the 2022 title in Qatar, Messi is now aiming to lead Argentina to a historic title defense—a feat not achieved since Brazil in 1962.
“Indeed, we are contenders. We have already secured the World Cup; and we possess the best player in the world, as well as one of the greatest in history, Messi,” Saviola told Marca.
He added that winning in Qatar has changed Messi’s approach: “He has alleviated the pressure of not winning the World Cup.
Now, he will undoubtedly relish the experience. I hope we can face Spain in the final stages.”