Michael Owen settles Spain-Argentina debate, names better side

Former England striker and football pundit Michael Owen has backed Spain to defeat Argentina in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that the European champions have been the best team in the tournament.

The highly anticipated final will take place on Sunday, with Spain and Argentina battling for football’s biggest prize after both sides successfully navigated their semi-final matches.

Spain booked their place in the final with an impressive 2-0 victory over France, one of the tournament favourites. Argentina, meanwhile, came from behind to beat England 2-1 and secure a second consecutive World Cup final appearance.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Owen said Spain have consistently shown a higher level of performance throughout the competition and deserve to be crowned world champions.

According to the former Liverpool, Real Madrid and England star, Argentina have been fortunate on several occasions during their journey to the final. He argued that Lionel Scaloni’s men have not been as dominant as many expected despite progressing through the tournament.

Owen noted that Argentina struggled in some of their matches, including difficult encounters against Cape Verde and Egypt. He also referenced their semi-final victory over England, suggesting that the South Americans benefited from key moments and were not fully convincing.

“Argentina have had quite a lucky path through to the semi-finals,” Owen said.

“They made hard work of Cape Verde, they made hard work of Egypt, and they scored late goals against England. I don’t think they’ve been very impressive throughout the tournament.”

The 2001 Ballon d’Or winner reserved special praise for Spain, describing their semi-final display against France as one of the standout performances of the World Cup.

He said Luis de la Fuente’s side played with confidence, control and tactical discipline against a strong French team, proving why many consider them the best side in international football at the moment.

Spain head into the final on the back of an impressive unbeaten run of 37 matches and are also the reigning European champions after winning Euro 2024.

Owen believes those achievements reflect the quality and consistency within the Spanish squad, adding that they have looked more complete than any other team at the tournament.

The former striker said Spain are “a lot better” than Argentina and expects them to emerge victorious in Sunday’s final.

With both nations aiming to make history, football fans around the world are eagerly awaiting what promises to be a thrilling showdown.

While Argentina will rely on their experience and resilience, Owen believes Spain’s superior form and performances give them the edge heading into the biggest match of the tournament.