Spain's defence prepares to face Messi in World Cup final
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 17, 2026, 8:19 PM
Last updated Jul 17, 2026
Spain's national team is set to confront Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium on Sunday. The team's success has been anchored by a robust defensive unit that has conceded only one goal throughout the tournament. Key defenders Marc Cucurella, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, and Pedro Porro have demonstrated exceptional form, with hopes of establishing a record for the fewest goals allowed in a World Cup-winning campaign. Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente, praised the defensive strategy, emphasizing the importance of solidifying both ends of the pitch.
- •Spain has conceded only one goal in seven matches.
- •A clean sheet would set a record for fewest goals conceded in a World Cup-winning campaign.
- •Cubarsi and Cucurella have been standout performers at the tournament.
- •Spain faces Argentina, aiming for back-to-back titles.
- •The final takes place at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.
- 8:19 PMYahoo Sports — None shall pass: Spain's defence ready to thwart Messi in World Cup final
"If Lionel Messi and Argentina are to clinch back-to-back World Cup titles on Sunday, they will have to find a way past one of the meanest defences in tournament history.The other member of Spain's back four -- Porro -- has been a surprise package at the tournament.
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