Who will conquer the greatest final in history? A colossal show awaits, with Trump among the attendees

The climax of the first 48-team World Cup will unfold at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The South Americans are aiming to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win two consecutive "Mundials," while the Europeans seek their second triumph after their initial victory in 2010.

The biggest moment will likely be the probable final World Cup appearance for Lionel Messi, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni urged fans to savor watching the diminutive genius at 39 years old. "He has made history. He is a legend," he said of the former Barcelona player who helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The three-time champions have demonstrated unwavering resilience throughout the current tournament, often facing elimination and adverse scores in knockout matches. Cape Verde lost to the "Albicelestes" only after extra time, Argentina overturned a deficit against Egypt with three goals in the final 11 minutes, Switzerland pushed their match into extra time, and England couldn't hold onto a 1-0 lead, ultimately losing 2-1 to a goal in second-half stoppage time.

Spain has been nearly flawless, conceding only one goal in their seven matches so far and defeating France in the semi-finals. Captain Rodri stated he is preparing for a "physical" battle and will try to ignore any potential "provocations."

"We have to be ready. But I believe if there's one thing this national team is known for, it's our ability to play different types of matches depending on the moment," said the Manchester City midfielder.

As both finalists finalized preparations for the tournament's most crucial match, the eastern United States was shrouded in persistent, choking smog. Wildfires in Canada sent thick, acrid smoke across the border, and residents of New York, Washington, and the American Midwest were advised to stay indoors due to poor air quality.

On Saturday, July 18, the smoke made New York the most polluted city in the world, but conditions are expected to improve by the start of the final.

US President Donald Trump will be among the 80,000 spectators at the stadium in East Rutherford – it will be the first match he attends at the tournament. Mexican head of state Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will also be present, meaning leaders from all three host nations will be in attendance.

A star-studded lineup, from Tom Cruise to Madonna and Shakira, will perform during the halftime show. This will be the first such spectacle in World Cup history.

At a New York reception with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Trump called the tournament "the most successful sporting event, perhaps in the history of the world." According to the FIFA head, the event "exceeded all expectations." "It is the biggest human, social, and cultural event humanity has ever seen," added the 56-year-old Swiss native.