Dream Final! Spain Unfazed by Argentine Provocations, De la Fuente Calms Nerves with Jokes

"It's going to be fantastic. These are two great teams with a lot in common. Both sides will try to impose their own game. I have great admiration for Argentina, and their coach is a friend of mine," the Spanish manager said about his final opponent at Friday's press conference.

The "Albicelestes" have been labeled as a tough and dirty-playing team at the tournament, but captain Rodri assured that they would not be drawn into provocations. "It's part of football. They give their all, but we won't fall into their trap and will ignore it," the Manchester City midfielder was quoted as saying by DPA.

De la Fuente brushed aside all questions at the press conference regarding Lamine Yamal's health, who missed Thursday's training, or pre-match nerves.

"I'm nervous because we're returning to the hotel by helicopter. I'm not nervous about anything else," the 65-year-old coach added with a smile, unconcerned even by the extended halftime break for musical performances by Justin Bieber, Shakira, Madonna, or other music industry stars.

"Before the tournament, I told the players about the specifics of this World Cup. We haven't had a single complaint. What seems strange to us now will be commonplace in a few years," stated the victorious Euro 2024 coach.

Argentina's national team coach Lionel Scaloni was also in good spirits. "We have to play our best to try and win. We are in good form, but there are always things we can improve," said the 48-year-old Scaloni, who once again highlighted Lionel Messi's form at 39 years old.

"It's phenomenal that Leo has reached the final at this stage of his career. We have to appreciate what he's doing," added Scaloni, who will attempt to become only the second coach in history to win two World Cup titles.