Argentina make 3 changes to lineup for WC final

Argentina have made a surprise trio of changes to their starting lineup for the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup final against Spain, with Rodrigo De Paul, Nico González and Gonzalo Montiel set to kick off for the defending champions. The move has sparked intense debate among football fans and pundits alike, with many questioning the decision to drop the experienced trio of Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes and Lisandro Martínez from the starting XI.

De Paul, who has been a key player in Argentina's midfield this tournament, is expected to partner with Enzo Fernández in a dynamic duo that will look to control the tempo of the game against a potent Spanish side. González, meanwhile, is set to make his first World Cup final start in place of the injured Julián Álvarez, while Montiel will look to provide width and pace down the right flank in a bid to stretch the Spanish defense. The changes are a significant departure from the team that lifted the trophy in 2022, and will undoubtedly add an extra layer of intrigue to the highly anticipated showdown in Los Angeles.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has been under pressure to make some changes to his lineup, with many calling for a more attacking-minded approach in the final. The inclusion of González and Montiel in particular suggests that Scaloni is looking to provide more width and pace to his attack, although the decision to drop Mac Allister and Paredes from the starting XI has raised eyebrows among some fans. With the stakes higher than ever, Scaloni will be hoping that his new-look lineup can inspire a triumphant performance against a Spanish side that has been in scintillating form throughout the tournament.

The World Cup final will take place at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00 local time. With the two teams set to face off in a highly anticipated showdown, all eyes will be on Argentina's new-look lineup and how they perform against a Spanish side that is determined to bring an end to their reign as world champions.