Spain and Argentina are set to compete in the World Cup final in New Jersey, with organisers closely monitoring the impact of smoke from Canadian wildfires. The match, taking place at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, will see Argentina attempt to secure consecutive World Cup titles, a feat not achieved since Brazil in 1962. Spain, meanwhile, is aiming for its second title after its initial victory in 2010.
Officials have been tracking the smoke that has affected skies across large parts of the United States. Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House World Cup task force, stated that discussions have occurred, and a representative from the National Weather Service is present at FIFA headquarters to monitor the situation. US President Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum are expected to be among the spectators at the final.
Preparations for the Final
Spain captain Rodri anticipates a physically demanding match against Argentina. The 2024 Ballon D’Or winner noted that the final is expected to differ from previous games played by the European champions. He emphasised the team’s adaptability, stating, “We are a very complete team, and that is why we are here.” When asked about potential provocative tactics from Argentina, Rodri acknowledged it as a part of football but stressed the importance of focusing on their own game.
Rodri also praised Argentina‘s Lionel Messi as “the greatest of all times,” acknowledging that this could be Messi‘s final World Cup match. However, he cautioned that Argentina is a strong collective, not solely reliant on one player. Mikel Merino, a key player for Spain, described neutralising Messi as a significant challenge. Merino, who scored late winners in matches against Portugal and Belgium, expressed confidence in his ability to make an impact, highlighting that the team’s victory is the ultimate goal.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente indicated that his team would pay “special attention” to Messi, an eight-time Ballon D’or winner. However, de la Fuente ruled out man-marking Messi, referencing a past experience where Messi scored four goals after a man-marker was substituted. He stressed the need for alertness and special attention rather than individual marking. The final also marks a personal encounter between de la Fuente and Argentina counterpart Lionel Scaloni, who developed a friendship in 2017 when de la Fuente was an instructor during Scaloni‘s coaching licence studies.
De la Fuente dismissed suggestions that Argentina might resort to unsporting tactics, expressing admiration for the Argentina national team’s achievements, including winning the World Cup, two Copa Americas, and the Finalissima. He believes both teams will prioritise talent and good football. Scaloni encouraged fans to appreciate seeing Messi in another World Cup final, calling him a “legend.” Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez reflected on the team’s collective efforts, stating, “My message to my team-mates is that they should enjoy this moment, prepare with a smile. This is something we will remember forever.” Argentina ended a 28-year wait for a major international title by winning the Copa America in 2021.
Weather and Air Quality Update
Smoke from Canadian wildfires has been a notable factor in the northeastern United States, affecting air quality in New York and New Jersey. At one point, New York recorded the worst air quality globally. However, meteorologists predict improved conditions for the final. The air quality index forecast indicates an improvement from unhealthy to “moderate” for sensitive groups in East Rutherford, suggesting minimal health risk for the general public on match day.
A thunderstorm passed through the area on Saturday afternoon, bringing heavy rain and thunder to the stadium. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill issued warnings about potential damaging winds, tornadoes, flash flooding, and large hailstones. FIFA is maintaining close contact with local authorities to monitor the effects of both the wildfire smoke and the storms on stadium conditions.
The storms led to the suspension of Spain‘s final training session at a nearby facility due to lightning, in accordance with US storm safety protocols. The Spanish football federation (RFEF) confirmed that players conducted a warm-up session indoors. FIFA stated that no alternative training slot would be provided for the team. Argentina, however, held an outdoor training session as scheduled, with players reportedly showing no concerns about air quality or weather conditions. Meteorologists anticipate that the storm front will largely clear the smoke from the northeast before the final, with temperatures expected to be around 27C with light breezes and low humidity for kick-off.
The selection of the New York New Jersey Stadium for the final, despite concerns about summer heat and recent air quality issues, was influenced by its global appeal and favourable timezone for European television audiences. Previous matches at the stadium have been sold out, indicating strong local engagement with the tournament. The biggest remaining concern beyond the weather involves access to the stadium, known for limited public transport options. The cost of bus and rail travel has been adjusted, with a matchday return price for New Jersey transit trains reduced to $98 from an initial $150, following an intervention from the governments of New York and New Jersey. Shuttle buses from Manhattan are available for $20.
Donald Trump held a reception in New York with FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, where he praised the World Cup as a highly successful sporting event. FIFA held talks with Trump at Trump Tower on Friday afternoon, a meeting that caused road closures and traffic disruption on Fifth Avenue.
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Source: dawn.com
