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The Messi Effect | Episode 42 | Thursday, July 16, 2026 World Cup Final preview: Argentina vs Spain at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ (3 PM ET). Spain: dominant knockout run, beat Portugal/Belgium/France consecutively. Midfield trio Ruiz/Rodri/Pedri controlling games. Argentina: resilient champs, came from behind vs Egypt, extra time vs Switzerland, late comeback vs England. Messi at 39 in likely last World Cup game. Tactical breakdown: Spain possession vs Argentina counterattack. Key matchups: Spain's fullbacks vs Argentina's wide threats, Unai Simon vs Emiliano Martinez in goal.
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