Argentina vs Spain: Scaloni Weighs Two Key Changes

Heading into the 2026 World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium, Lionel Scaloni is reportedly weighing two lineup tweaks ahead of Sunday’s clash with Spain. The starting XI should be confirmed around midday, giving fans a glimpse of the tactical adjustments he is considering. These changes could reshape the backline and midfield, potentially altering the balance against Spain’s high‑pressing system.

Right‑Back Battle: Molina vs Montiel

Nahuel Molina has started every knockout match for Argentina but was substituted each time, prompting Scaloni to reconsider his place. Gonzalo Montiel, who began two group‑stage games, has been limited to substitute roles since and is now in the running for a recall. The rest of the defense looks settled, with Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Nicolas Tagliafico expected to retain their spots. Argentina reached this final with a 2‑1 semi‑final win over England, showing Scaloni is willing to reshuffle even a winning unit.

Midfield Shuffle: De Paul Sets Up for Return

Rodri De Paul is pushing for a starting berth after being left out of the semi‑final in favor of Giuliano Simeone. De Paul lacks the explosive attacking threat of Simeone but offers greater control and pressing ability, qualities that could trouble Spain’s double‑pivot of Rodri and Fabian Ruiz. The choice presents a familiar Scaloni dilemma: energy versus positional discipline. A deeper tactical look points to the Rodri‑Fabian axis as the key battleground for Sunday.

Tactical Implications and Historic Stakes

If De Paul starts, Argentina will gain a more steady midfield that can disrupt Spain’s build‑up, while Simeone’s inclusion brings unpredictability and forward runs. A victory on Sunday would not only clinch the title but also make Argentina the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup. The decisions in the back three and the pivot could decide whether the Albiceleste can echo that historic repeat.