Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario believes Spain will defeat defending champions Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, backing Luis de la Fuente’s side to control the contest against Lionel Messi and company.

The title clash at the New York, New Jersey Stadium brings together two of the tournament’s standout teams. Spain arrive unbeaten in 37 matches and have conceded just one goal during their World Cup campaign. Argentina, meanwhile, are chasing a fourth world title and hoping to become the first men’s team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the trophy.

Ahead of the final, Ronaldo shared his prediction during an interview with ESPN Brasil. “I think Spain will win the game and easily,” Ronaldo said.

Spain have impressed Ronaldo throughout the tournament

The former Brazil striker revealed that Spain had been among his favourites from the beginning of the competition. France also featured prominently in his pre-tournament predictions before their campaign ended with a 2-0 defeat to Spain in the semifinal.

“For me, France and Spain were always the favourites,” Ronaldo said.

Also Read | How Spain can stop Lionel Messi in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final: Germany’s 2014 blueprint explained

Spain have combined defensive discipline with impressive control in midfield throughout the tournament, making them one of the most consistent teams on the road to the final.

Ronaldo highlights Spain’s possession advantage

Ronaldo believes Spain’s biggest strength lies in their ability to dominate possession and dictate the pace of games. According to the two-time World Cup winner, Argentina could struggle to recover if Spain establish an early lead because of their control on the ball.

“I don’t think Argentina have the strength to turn the game around if Spain go one or two goals ahead, because Spain will have possession all the time,” he said.

Spain have yet to fall behind in any match during the FIFA World Cup 2026 and are now one victory away from securing their second World Cup title after winning the tournament in 2010.

Argentina have also enjoyed another impressive campaign, reaching a second consecutive World Cup final after lifting the trophy in Qatar four years ago.

Also Read | Argentina vs Spain World Cup final: Lionel Scaloni faces former mentor Luis de la Fuente in a unique coaching battle

Ronaldo knows the pressure of a World Cup final

Few former players understand the demands of a World Cup final better than Ronaldo.

The Brazilian was part of Brazil’s World Cup-winning squad in 1994 before starring in the 1998 tournament, where he received the Golden Ball despite Brazil finishing runners-up.

Ronaldo
ZOOM IMAGE
Ronaldo | X [IMDB]

His greatest World Cup moment came in 2002 after recovering from serious knee injuries. Ronaldo scored eight goals during the tournament, including both strikes in Brazil’s 2-0 victory over Germany in the final.

Across his World Cup career, Ronaldo won two titles, scored 15 goals in 19 matches and remains Brazil’s highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.

With that experience behind him, Ronaldo has backed Spain to continue their unbeaten run and finish the tournament as world champions, while Argentina aim to produce one more memorable performance in what could be Lionel Messi’s final appearance on football’s biggest stage.

FAQs

Who does Ronaldo Nazario think will win the World Cup 2026 final?

Ronaldo Nazario has predicted that Spain will defeat Argentina comfortably in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.

Why has Ronaldo backed Spain to beat Argentina?

Ronaldo believes Spain’s possession-based style and ability to control matches will make it difficult for Argentina to stage a comeback if they fall behind.