Yamal sits out Spain training days before World Cup final

Spain and Argentina will meet on Sunday, July 19, in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, setting up a clash between the reigning European and South American champions for the first time in World Cup history. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. ET.beinsports+1

Spain booked their spot with a 2-0 semifinal win over France in Dallas on Tuesday, while Argentina staged a dramatic late comeback to beat England 2-1 in Atlanta on Wednesday.foxsports+1

Argentina's Late Heroics Stun England

Defending champions Argentina appeared headed for elimination after Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute. But Lionel Messi delivered two crosses in the final minutes that changed everything — Enzo Fernández headed home an equalizer in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martínez nodded in a stoppage-time winner to send Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final.espn+1

"England will have to endure at least 64 years of hurt," ESPN wrote after the match, as Thomas Tuchel's side fell agonizingly short of a first final since 1966.espn

Rodri's Rally and Yamal Concerns

Spain captain Rodri has struck a tone of focused determination ahead of the final. "I'm here to win the World Cup," the Manchester City midfielder declared, a mantra he has repeated throughout the tournament. But he cautioned against complacency: "If anyone thinks we are going to win a World Cup without suffering, they are wrong. The hardest part is yet to come," he told Marca.goal+1

However, concerns have emerged over teenage star Lamine Yamal, who sat out Spain's Thursday training session with strapping visible on his left thigh. The 18-year-old Barcelona winger has been managing a hamstring issue in the same leg since April, when he missed the end of the club season.sports.yahoo+2

Betting Markets Favor Spain

Oddsmakers have installed Spain as favorites to lift the trophy. ESPN reported opening odds of Spain at -164 and Argentina at +134 to advance, while Fox Sports listed Spain at -154. The line reflects Spain's dominant path through the tournament, though Argentina's pedigree as defending champions and Messi's pursuit of a fairytale ending ensure the final carries no shortage of intrigue.foxsports+1