2026 World Cup – Ronaldo: “I think Spain will easily beat Argentina…”

# Is Ronaldo Nazario already burying Argentina? His shocking prediction for the Spain-Argentina final sparks controversy

**Just hours before the kickoff of the 2026 World Cup final, two-time Brazilian world champion Ronaldo Nazario has sent shockwaves through the football world. Invited to give his prediction for the highly anticipated showdown between Spain and Argentina, “Il Fenomeno” did not mince words, predicting a display of strength from La Roja.**

This Sunday, July 19, 2026, the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey is set to vibrate to the rhythm of a final that promises to be historic. On one side, Spain, driven by a well-oiled collective and a golden generation, aims for a second star after its 2010 triumph. On the other, Argentina, the reigning world champion, seeks to secure a fourth world crown, a second consecutive one after the 2022 triumph in Qatar. But for Ronaldo Nazario, the verdict is already in.

## “Spain will easily beat Argentina”: a prophecy that divides

Interviewed by our colleagues at wiwsport, the Brazilian stated bluntly: **”I think Spain will easily beat Argentina.”** A phrase that sounds like a challenge thrown at the Albiceleste. The former star striker for FC Barcelona and Real Madrid justifies his analysis by the tactical superiority and technical mastery of the Spanish midfield. “La Roja has an ability to control the tempo of the match that few teams can counter. Argentina will have to be perfect defensively and hope for a flash of genius from its stars to turn the tide,” he added.

> “This is not a lack of respect for Argentina, but Spain has been playing total football since the start of the tournament. Their pressing and ball circulation are at a stratospheric level.”

This prediction, although coming from a living legend, is not unanimous. Many observers believe that Argentina, strong in its experience and resilience, has the weapons to counter Spanish possession play. The question on everyone’s lips now is: **Is Ronaldo Nazario right to bet on a walk in the park for Spain, or will Argentine pride contradict the “Fenomeno”?**

### Clash of styles: possession vs. pragmatism

Tonight’s duel is also a clash of philosophies. Luis de la Fuente’s Spain embodies the modern “tiki-taka,” with sometimes criticized sterile domination but formidable offensive efficiency thanks to players like Pedri or Lamine Yamal. On the other side, Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina, the reigning world champion, relies on a solid defensive block, quick transitions, and the genius of its attackers. The match promises to be a true chess match, where every detail will count.

To delve deeper into the analysis of the forces at play, our colleagues at *Le Monde* have published a detailed tactical study of the two finalists. Additionally, the *L’Équipe* website offers a complete history of confrontations between these two giants of world football.

**Stakes and perspectives**

This final is much more than just a match. For Spain, it is an opportunity to prove that its possession game can still reign over the world. For Argentina, it is a chance to definitively enter history by securing two consecutive world titles, a rare feat. If Ronaldo Nazario’s prediction comes true, it would mark a turning point in the hierarchy of world football, placing La Roja as the new absolute reference.

Article generated from source: 🦁 Wiwsport

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Rédacteur en Chef

Moussa JDF

Rédacteur en chef et analyste de données sportives. Passionné par les tactiques et le mercato, je décortique l'actualité des grands championnats européens en temps réel pour vous offrir une information rapide, fiable et sans filtre.

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