The South Americans are striving to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups, while Spain are eyeing a second title after their maiden victory in 2010.

The tennis legend, who retired from professional tennis in 2024 after a glittering career that saw him win 22 Grand Slam titles, remains deeply passionate about football and will be watching from home as two footballing giants battle for global glory.

Mikel Oyarzabal has scored in the six finals he has played as a professional.

If Argentina are to retain the trophy they won in Qatar in 2022, they must first break down a Spanish defence that has been virtually impenetrable throughout the competition. Luis de la Fuente's side has conceded just one goal in seven matches, making defensive discipline the cornerstone of its run to the final.

The two nations will battle for the title on Monday [1am, Bangladesh Time] at the East Rutherford, N.J.

Rodri, the 2024 Ballon D'Or winner who has excelled at the heart of Spain's midfield during the World Cup, said he expects the final to be unlike any other game the European champions have faced.

Messi, accompanied by Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni and goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez, spoke at an event ahead of Monday's World Cup final against Spain in New York/New Jersey (1:00am Bangladesh Time).