National Teams
World Cup final: Yobo says Messi, Álvarez will test Spain’s defence like never before
Former Nigeria captain Joseph Yobo believes Argentina’s attacking partnership of Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez will pose the biggest threat to Spain in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final.
Speaking during his punditry duties on Sporty TV, Yobo analysed the eagerly anticipated clash and explained why Spain’s defence faces its toughest assignment of the tournament against the reigning world champions.
The former Everton centre-back said Argentina’s frontline possesses the quality to unsettle even the strongest backlines.
“Looking at the way they set up, as a former centre-back, you are playing against two world-class strikers. Messi and Álvarez can cause any defence trouble,” Yobo said.
Although he acknowledged Spain’s impressive journey to the final, Yobo believes Luis de la Fuente’s youthful side must be wary of Argentina’s attacking firepower.
“The Spanish team is young. Although they have done well up to this point, they have something to worry about.”
Yobo also warned that concentrating solely on Messi could leave Spain vulnerable to Álvarez, whose movement, work rate and finishing make him equally dangerous.
“If it is just Messi we understand, but Álvarez up there can cause them trouble all day. They would be more concerned,” he added.
Spain head into the final boasting the tournament’s best defensive record, having conceded just once en route to the showpiece. However, they now face an Argentina side spearheaded by Messi, who has once again been among the standout performers at the World Cup, while Atlético Madrid forward Álvarez has consistently provided energy, intelligent movement and a clinical edge in the final third.
With the world title at stake, Yobo expects Argentina’s experienced attacking duo to provide Spain with their sternest examination yet.
