Spain handed major boost as Lamine Yamal declared fit for World Cup final against Argentina

Spain winger Lamine Yamal has been cleared to play in the 2026 World Cup final against Argentina, easing fears that the teenager could miss Sunday’s showpiece in New Jersey.

The 19-year-old trained normally with his Spain team-mates on Friday, just 48 hours before the final at MetLife Stadium, according to Spanish journalist Alfredo Martinez. Right-back Pedro Porro, who had also been a doubt, returned to full training alongside him.

Both players had missed Thursday’s group session, prompting concern in Spain that injuries or fitness issues could rule them out of the meeting with Lionel Messi’s Argentina.

Their presence on the training pitch is being seen as a significant boost to coach Luis de la Fuente as Spain prepare for one of the biggest matches in the country’s history.

Yamal and Porro set for final after scare

Yamal and Porro’s absence from Thursday’s session had sparked intense speculation in Spanish media that they were carrying knocks picked up in the semi-final.

But those doubts were dispelled on Friday when the pair joined the rest of the “La Roja” squad in full-contact training, with no special individual work or visible restrictions reported.

Spanish outlets say their participation effectively confirms that both will be available for selection against Argentina, barring any late setbacks before kick-off.

The final will be played on Sunday at the 82,500-capacity MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, one of the flagship venues at this expanded World Cup jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Key role in semi-final victory over France

Yamal has been one of Spain’s standout performers in the tournament and was heavily involved in the 2-0 semi-final win over France on Tuesday.

The winger won the penalty from which Spain scored their opening goal and remained on the pitch for the full 90 minutes, underlining his importance to De la Fuente’s tactical plans.

Despite his prominence in Spain’s attacking play, Yamal has scored just once at this World Cup – in the 4-0 group-stage victory over Saudi Arabia on matchday two.

At 19, he has been widely tipped as a leading contender for the tournament’s Best Young Player award, with his dribbling, vision and interplay in the final third drawing praise from pundits and coaches alike.

Rising star in Spain’s new generation

Yamal’s emergence has coincided with a broader renewal of Spain’s national team, as a new generation attempts to emulate the golden era that lifted the World Cup in 2010.

His performances have been closely tracked by FIFA’s own metrics and power rankings, where he has scored highly for attacking contribution, chance creation and defensive work-rate from wide areas.

Analysts have highlighted his willingness to track back and support the defence as a key factor in Spain’s balance, particularly in knockout matches against higher-ranked opponents.

Porro, meanwhile, has provided competition and cover in the right-back role, offering attacking width and crossing ability that complement Yamal’s tendency to cut inside.

Spain and Argentina ready for MetLife showdown

With Yamal and Porro now expected to be fit, Spain are set to approach the World Cup final at close to full strength as they face an Argentina side chasing another global crown.

The match brings together two nations with rich football histories and contrasting recent trajectories, and is expected to draw a worldwide television audience of hundreds of millions.

Kick-off at MetLife Stadium is scheduled for Sunday, with Spain hoping their teenage star can once again rise to the occasion on the biggest stage of all.