Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand has backed Spain to defeat Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, while warning football fans against underestimating Lionel Scaloni's side.
The highly anticipated final will see Spain take on defending champions Argentina at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, with the biggest prize in world football at stake.
Despite predicting a Spanish victory, Ferdinand insisted Argentina remain one of the strongest teams in international football and dismissed suggestions that they are merely an average side.
Ferdinand Defends Argentina
Speaking on Sky Sports, the former England international praised Argentina's resilience, mentality and winning culture.
"I find it difficult to bet against Argentina. They have demonstrated remarkable character, determination, and resilience. I believe people have been somewhat disrespectful by calling them an average team; they are not," Ferdinand said.
He also highlighted the influence of Lionel Messi, insisting the 39-year-old remains among the world's elite players.
"They possess one of the greatest players to have ever played the game. Even at 39, he remains one of the top players in the world, and they have a fantastic team."
Ferdinand added that Argentina's recent achievements prove they deserve far more respect.
"You cannot achieve what they have in finals and major competitions over the past few years, becoming world champions, and still refer to them as average."
Spain Enter Final as Favourites
Spain head into the final in impressive form after dominating opponents throughout the tournament.
La Furia Roja have scored 13 goals while conceding just one in seven matches, emerging as many fans' favourites to lift the trophy.
Argentina, meanwhile, have endured a more challenging route to the final but once again demonstrated their ability to grind out results when it matters most.
Ferdinand Predicts Spain Triumph
While praising Argentina's ability to rise under pressure, Ferdinand ultimately believes Spain will emerge victorious.
"If you are saying that, you clearly do not watch enough football, as they are an excellent team, and in challenging situations, they become even better and stronger. However, I do believe Spain will win the match," he concluded.
Football fans around the world now await what promises to be an enthralling World Cup final between two of the tournament's best-performing nations.