World Cup finalists in numbers: Argentina and Spain compared

The World Cup final on Sunday pits holders Argentina against Spain, the South American champions versus the European champions. Statistics reveal the contrasting strengths of both sides.

Argentina have scored 19 goals, the most in the tournament, thanks to clinical finishing. Spain have netted 13, six fewer, despite taking more shots, with an expected goals (xG) of 13.3 indicating average finishing. Notably, Argentina have scored five goals from outside the box, while Spain have none from distance.

Defensively, Spain have conceded just one goal, compared to Argentina's seven. Spain's defensive xG of 2.1 is the lowest in the tournament, with Uruguay second at 2.4. Argentina's defence has been better than the numbers suggest, as only three teams have faced fewer shots, and only Spain have a lower xG against per 90 minutes. However, Spain's defence is in a league of its own, allowing very few high-quality chances.

Both teams have dominated possession in most games, but neither relies on it. Spain had only 51% possession in their semi-final win over France, and Argentina just 48% in their group-stage victory against Algeria. Spain have delivered more crosses overall, while Argentina have increased their crossing output in later matches.

In terms of physicality, Spain run and sprint more per 90 minutes, while Argentina have been outrun by every opponent, totalling 17km less, yet still winning. Spain have the highest aerial duel success rate at the World Cup.

Dribbling statistics show that only two players stand out: Lamine Yamal and Lionel Messi. Together, they account for 90 of the 209 dribbles attempted by both teams (43%). Yamal has the most dribbles in the tournament, with Messi second.