Argentina enter the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain with history within reach as Lionel Scaloni’s side are one goal away from setting a new tournament record for shots from outside the penalty area.The defending champions have already scored five goals from outside the box, equaling the highest tally of any team in a single FIFA World Cup. Lionel Messi contributed two of those long-range efforts, while Giovani Lo Celso, Julian Alvarez and Enzo Fernandez had one each. Messi also overtook Brazil great Rivellino to become the player with the most World Cup goals scored from outside the penalty area.Now, Argentina have the chance to claim that record outright when they face UEFA Euro 2024 champions Spain in Sunday’s final at New York’s New Jersey Stadium.Argentina booked their place in the title clash with a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over England in the semi-finals. After the break, Enzo Fernandez restored parity before Lautaro Martinez hit a stoppage-time winner to send the reigning champions into a second consecutive World Cup final.Meanwhile, Spain reached their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 2010 after a comprehensive 2-0 win over France. Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty won by Lamine Yamal before Pedro Porro sealed the result after the break, with Spain’s disciplined defense recording their sixth clean sheet in seven games.Spain coach Luis de la Fuente is expecting an entertaining encounter, describing the final as “a cracking match” between two teams that share a similar philosophy built on quality, talent and attacking football.Scaloni echoed that respect, insisting Argentina must produce their “best version” to retain the title. The Argentina boss also hailed Messi’s remarkable longevity, saying the 39-year-old’s journey to another World Cup final adds another extraordinary chapter to the legacy of one of football’s greatest players.With the trophy and a unique World Cup record both on the line, Argentina has every reason to believe that history could be made once more.