Spain Opens as Favorites in World Cup Final, Faces Lionel Messi’s Argentina
The 2026 World Cup Final is set with Spain opening as the favorite against Lionel Messi and the defending champions, Argentina. MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey will host the final which is set for Sunday, July 19 at 3 p.m. ET on FOX. The third place game, which features favorites France taking on (Team), will be held on Saturday, July 18 from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
Spain vs. Argentina World Cup Final Opening Odds
Both Spain and Argentina advanced through their semifinal matches in different fashions, with Spain handling France from start-to-finish while Argentina once again came from behind to win in dramatic fashion. This has become an apparent calling card for Argentina during the 2026 World Cup with narrow wins over Cape Verde and Egypt where they had to come from behind to win – as was their semifinal encounter with England.
Will lady luck run out against Spain? Spain is a club that has looked every bit the part of a World Cup champion with wire-to-wire wins and constant shutouts. The oddsmakers seems to agree, leaning towards Spain with opening moneyline odds (in 90 minute regulation) set at +125. Spain was a co-favorite among many to win the 2026 World Cup at the beginning of the tournament, so it makes sense that they are favorites following an impressive 2-0 win over France.
Something has to give in this match, whether Spain wins in regulation with another ‘to nil’ victory, or Argentina plays spoiler with a dramatic go-ahead goal to lift the trophy. Of course, this match can always go into extra time and penalty kicks – as the draw has odds to hit at +195.
France vs. England World Cup Third Place Match Opening Odds
While all the attention is on Spain vs. Argentina, Miami will host the third place match which will feature favorites France taking on England. France never looked right in their match against Spain, while England saw a 1-0 lead disappear in the final five minutes of their semifinal match against Argentina. It’s always tough to know exactly how much a team will put out full effort in a meaningless match – although the bronze medal should add some conviction to players actually trying hard.
Regardless, exhibitions and placement matches that aren’t for first typically are avoidable to wager on. However, there is motivation to not only return home with a victory but to also make amends for embarrassing losses. Although the recommendation would be to forgo wagering or trading this match, we do have odds to report on – which sees France as the favorite at -105.
Golden Boot Current Odds
Following the semifinal match between England and Argentina, the Golden Boot is between Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe each with eight goals. It is always possible players like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham record a hat trick to take the lead during the third place match, but unlikely along with a needed goalless game from both Mbappe and Messi.
Messi has actually been held out of the back of the net the last two matches, as his assists have become more frequent which includes the game-winning goal against England. Expect a good defensive team to limit Messi’s shot taking, while Mbappe will likely look to score after being shutout in the semifinals against a reeling England team that’s coming off a deflating loss.
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Photo Credit: REUTERS
