The FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina is underway, and the pre-game show has been nothing short of extraordinary. The game is being played in a vibrant atmosphere in New Jersey, with a temperature of 27 degrees and sunny skies at 3:13 pm local time. The stage is set for a thrilling match, with both teams aiming to lift the coveted trophy. This final is a repeat of the 2010 World Cup final, where Spain emerged victorious. The Spanish side, known for their possession-based style, dominated the early exchanges, enjoying 65% of the ball and completing 164 passes to Argentina's 93. Lamine Yamal, the young Spanish talent, has already made an impact, drawing a foul from Nicolás Tagliafico with his trickery. The game has been described as a 'cagey affair', with no score after 27 minutes. Lionel Messi, the Argentine captain, and Lamine Yamal have both had notable chances, but the game remains tight. The pre-game show, however, has been the real spectacle. The US President, Donald Trump, was keen to get his hands on the World Cup trophy, which was brought into his private suite by a FIFA minder. This was followed by a schmaltzy sermon from Hollywood icon Tom Cruise, who took the pre-game mic to deliver a passionate speech about the beauty of the game and the world. The American anthem was performed by Jennifer Hudson, adding to the festive atmosphere. The match itself is a fascinating tactical battle. Argentina, led by manager Lionel Scaloni, has made three changes from their semi-final victory over England, with Rodrigo De Paul, Gonzalo Montiel, and Nicolas Gonzalez coming into the starting lineup. Spain, managed by Luis de la Fuente, has an unchanged team, with Lamine Yamal playing up front after a knock in the semi-final. The lineups are as follows: Spain: Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri (captain), Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Alex Baena, Mikel Oyarzabal. Argentina: Emiliano Martinez; Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Nicolas Gonzalez; Lionel Messi (captain), Julian Alvarez. The game promises to be a close affair, with both teams having their chances. The question remains: will Spain's possession-based game plan be enough to overcome Argentina's emotional and passionate display? The answer will be revealed on the pitch, and the world will be watching.
