Why Spain will be World Champion
By Vincent Öfner
The Spanish have shown in this tournament so far that they are the best team.
While they didn't deliver the same spectacle as France or show the same comeback qualities as Argentina, neither was necessary.
Because the "Furia Roja" dominated every single game over 90 minutes, giving their opponents little room to breathe.
The semi-final against France was the best example of this; the supposedly best offense of this tournament had nothing to counter Spain's dominance.
A crucial factor in the final will also be Rodri, who can once again deliver his 2024 performance in this tournament. The Spanish captain is the crucial playmaker in midfield. If he continues to play flawlessly, it will be virtually impossible for Argentina to break free from the Iberians' dominance.
While Argentina still has perhaps the best player in the world in Lionel Messi, Spain has his designated successor.
Lamine Yamal's scoring numbers might not be what was expected beforehand for this tournament, but he still proves his importance in every match. The 19-year-old has proven in his career so far that he particularly shines in big games.
If the youngster achieves that and the rest of the team also performs as usual, then Spain will ultimately lift the golden trophy.
Why Argentina will be World Champion
By Florian Gabriel
Probably the biggest argument for Argentina is their mentality. Two knockout games won only after extra time, two deficits turned around in stoppage time.
The "Albiceleste" rarely truly shone playing-wise in this tournament, but always found a response.
That has been the decisive difference so far. There is probably no team in the world that is more unpleasant to play against.
From the first minute, you are under constant pressure, every tackle is full commitment, and then there's also a certain Messi factor.
Eight goals and four assists in seven World Cup matches speak volumes. At 39, Lionel Messi is still one of the best footballers in the world – and so far the most influential player of this World Cup.
In a second consecutive final, the superstar could once again be the decisive factor and lead the Argentinians to their second consecutive title and their fourth World Cup title overall.
Ultimately, small details will decide such a final; perhaps it will even go into extra time. However, I see Argentina as being that decisive bit more unpleasant and dangerous.
In this tournament, it seems as if nothing can unsettle this team – neither a deficit nor a setback.
