As the footballing world turns its attention to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey for the monumental World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, a previous winner has backed Argentina to bring the trophy home again 1978 World Cup hero Mario Kempes, who famously finished as the top scorer when La Albiceleste won their first crown, believes Lionel Scalonis side has developed a unique psychological edge throughout the tournament.Argentina has faced many challenges, having to come from behind in three matches, which demonstrates their resilience and ability to turn games around, Kempes told AS.Spain has also managed to finish their matches within the 90 minutes, winning two of them almost in the final moments. This suggests a close match is likely. I believe Argentina has a slight advantage, because they know how to overcome adversity.Having experienced the intense pressure of a World Cup final first-hand, the former Valencia striker warned that standard tournament form counts for little once the whistle blows.Table of ContentsLike touching the skyMessis Second Wind in MiamiLike touching the skyThe first thing is that you have to understand that youve done things well so far, but to win you have to do them, and do them very well, because its the last match, the decisive one, the one that can put you on the top or second step, Kempes added.Winning a World Cup isnt easy, and repeating it is even harder. Argentina has a chance to do it; for me, theyre the favourites. If Lionel Messi lifts the trophy, it will be like touching the sky. Theres nothing greater.Despite his deep ties to Spanish football, Kempes admitted his allegiance remains firmly with his homeland ahead of what promises to be a tactical, high-pressing battle.Im Argentinian, adopted by Spanish fans, and of course by Valencia supporters, but as an Argentinian, Ill always support Argentina, he said.I think its going to be a very interesting match, a clash where both teams handle the ball very well. There will be high pressure from both sides; they wont let the ball out of play because theyll press very high up the pitch to prevent any build-up play. Ultimately, whats clear is that those of us watching from the sidelines are going to suffer. Everyone, Argentinians and Spaniards alike, but its going to be a great match.Messis Second Wind in MiamiA major talking point heading into the final has been the sensational form of 39-year-old Messi. Kempes freely admitted that, like many pundits, he had doubts about how much impact the Inter Miami superstar could make at this stage of his career.We all thought he wouldnt, myself included. I thought Id have to talk to the coach to see how many minutes hed get, but hes in a second wind, and thats great for him, Kempes said.Hes in a league thats not like the European ones, with such rigid systems, constantly on top of you and demanding to win, win, win. In Miami, you can enjoy life, go out with your family anywhere, and thats why hes arrived fresh, eager, and very motivated. Topics Argentina National Football Team Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Spain v Argentina: Predicted line-ups, where to watch, stats and preview for World Cup final Mitch Fretton 19th July, 2026 World Cup 2026: How Messi can win the Golden Boot Tom Rostance 19th July, 2026 Messi admits World Cup meeting with Yamal crazy after iconic photoshoot Mitch Fretton 18th July, 2026 World Cup final 2026: Messi vs Yamal represents true passing of the torch moment Mitch Fretton 18th July, 2026 Spain v Argentina: Winners to receive rings as FIFA continues to Americanise World Cup Jon Fisher 17th July, 2026 Messi is the past and present, Yamal is the present and future Barcelona chief Laporta hails La Masia ahead of World Cup final Jon Fisher 17th July, 2026
