World Cup final: Frank Leboeuf explains why Spain will beat Argentina, predicted 4-0

Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has backed Spain to defeat Lionel Messi’s Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, predicting a commanding 4-0 victory for La Roja.

Spain have been in impressive form throughout the tournament, conceding just one goal and scoring 13 in their seven matches before the final.

After opening their campaign with a goalless draw against debutants Cabo Verde, Spain recovered strongly with wins over Saudi Arabia (4-0), Uruguay (1-0) and Austria (3-0) in the Round of 32.

Mikel Merino has also played a key role in Spain’s progress, scoring decisive goals as a substitute against Portugal (1-0) in the Round of 16 and Belgium (2-1) in the quarter-final. Spain then underlined their dominance with a comfortable 2-0 semi-final victory over France.

Argentina, meanwhile, have relied on both Lionel Messi’s brilliance and their ability to produce dramatic comebacks. Messi has contributed eight goals and four assists in seven matches, while the defending champions have overcome several difficult challenges on their way to the final.

Argentina edged past Cabo Verde 3-2 in the Round of 32, recovered from a two-goal deficit to beat Egypt 3-2 in the Round of 16, and defeated 10-man Switzerland 3-1 in the quarter-final after scoring twice in extra time.

They sealed their place in the final with another late comeback against England, scoring in the 85th and 92nd minutes to secure a 2-1 semi-final win.

With debate continuing among fans and pundits over the likely outcome of the final, Leboeuf has made his prediction clear, backing Spain to record a convincing victory.

Speaking via ESPN UK on YouTube, the 58-year-old said: “I apologise, but I must predict a very large scoreline. I’m going with 4-0 in favour of Spain. I have respect for Argentina and could consider a 3-2 outcome, but I believe that if Spain score first, Argentina will have to push forward, which could expose them against the quality of the Spanish squad.”

Spain are aiming to win their second World Cup title after their historic triumph in 2010, while Argentina are seeking to retain the trophy and add a fourth star to their badge after previous successes in 1978, 1986 and 2022.