Zlatan Ibrahimovic thinks Spain will get the job done against Argentina in Sunday's World Cup final, and he isn't shy about saying so.
The former Sweden striker, working as a pundit for Fox Sports, has backed Spain to overpower Lionel Messi's Argentina when the two meet at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches its conclusion this weekend after 103 matches involving a record 48 teams. Only one game is left to decide the world champions.
Argentina are chasing back-to-back titles after beating England 2-1 in the semi-finals. Spain are aiming for a third World Cup crown after knocking out France.
Ibrahimovic believes Spain's style will be too much for the reigning champions.
"Spain handled France very good. I believe they can handle this Argentina. Also, they're gonna play their possession. Argentina is not a counterattacking team," he said.
"I believe Spain is gonna do their thing. They're gonna play collectively. I believe Spain is going to dominate that game."
The comments fit a pattern for Ibrahimovic during the tournament. He has been outspoken throughout, including criticism of England manager Thomas Tuchel after Argentina's semi-final win.
He is far from the only big name leaning towards Spain.
Former England striker Michael Owen said Spain have been the standout team of the tournament. Owen also argued Argentina had a favourable route to the final.
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Owen praised Spain's display against France and said they are "a lot better" than Argentina, predicting they will lift the trophy.
Former Chelsea captain John Terry also went with Spain, though he praised Argentina's resilience, determination and team spirit.
Scottish figure Graeme Souness agreed Spain go into the final as slight favourites. He warned against underestimating Argentina's mental toughness and fighting spirit.
Not everyone is convinced, though.
Former Real Madrid and Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas offered a different view. He admitted the final is extremely hard to call but backed Argentina to retain their title.
Navas believes Messi could once again make the difference on the biggest stage.
The debate captures the split among some of the game's well-known names. Two of football's biggest nations meet with Messi and Lamine Yamal leading the way.
For Argentina, victory would mean consecutive World Cup titles, a feat that has not been achieved in decades. For Spain, it would be their third star and their first triumph since 2010.
The final kicks off on Sunday, with both sides now waiting to see whether the predictions hold up.
Source: Yen Sports
