Date, Time and Venue for Spain vs Argentina

One of the most highly-anticipated international matches of 2026 is fast approaching, with Argentina and Spain set to face each other in next year’s Finalissima. The event will pit the Euro 2024 and the Copa America 2024 winners against one another, as both teams seek dominance over the other.

Countless talents will likely be taking the field when the game begins. On one side, you might have Lionel Messi, one of the greatest players to play the game. And on the other, you have his potential heir — Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal.

The match might well be a precursor to next summer’s World Cup, where both teams could potentially meet again. But what is Finalissima? And where will the game be taking place? GIVEMESPORT are here to give you a full breakdown of the tie.

What is Finalissima?

So far, there have been three editions of Finalissima, which pits the champions of Europe and South America against one another. Formerly known as the Artemio Franchi Cup, the first match of its kind involved France and Uruguay, with the former emerging victorious in a 2-0 win.

Argentina and Denmark would then play out the 1993 edition before the competition took a prolonged absence until 2022, when it was rebranded as Finalissima. Argentina, the World Champions after their triumph at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, faced Euro 2020 winners Italy. Messi and co. emerged victorious in that game, as La Albiceleste ran riot in a 3-0 win at Wembley Stadium.

When and Where is Finalissima?

Spain and Argentina are set to face each other in the showpiece event at Lusail Stadium in Qatar, the same venue which hosted the World Cup final in 2022. With the second-largest capacity in Asia (89,000), football fans from around the world will likely make the journey to watch the game.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, Minister of Sports and Youth and Chairman of the LOC, said: “Qatar is proud to host this prestigious match between two champions. We have a track record of delivering world-class sports events, providing an exceptional experience for fans, supporters and media. Hosting Finalissima 2026 further demonstrates the trust our partners continue to show in Qatar.”

The game is set to take place on Friday 27th March 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 local time, which is 18:00 GMT.

Will Lionel Messi Play in the Finalissima?

Although he is currently approaching the end of his career, Messi looks set to play in the 2026 Finalissima for Argentina. Playing in Lusail Stadium again, where he lifted the World Cup trophy after beating France, will likely bring back happy memories for him.

It will also be the first time that he will face the man who many have dubbed his successor, Yamal. While it is not the first time they have met, there is a very good chance that it will be the only time they will play each other, unless they meet at the 2026 World Cup.

Related

10 Favourites to Win 2026 World Cup (Ranked)

England, Brazil, and Spain are among the current favourites for glory ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Who Are the Favourites to Win?

With both teams ranked as the two best nations in the world by FIFA, there is little to separate them going into the game. Nevertheless, it’s Spain who will enter the match as slight favourites as things stand.

According to bwin, La Roja have been given odds of 5/4 of winning. Lionel Scaloni’s team aren’t too far behind though, with odds 15/8, showing just how close the contest is likely to be.