Stopping Spain easy in theory; But in reality, it's like a maze

The World Cup final is not just a battle between two teams, but also a clash of two football philosophies. On the one hand, European strategy, on the other hand, Latin American creativity. However, even between these two trends, Spain and Argentina have one big similarity—both teams love to control the ball and set the rhythm of the match. Therefore, there is a lot of discussion about the tactical battle surrounding the final to be held in New Jersey on July 20 (1 am Bangladesh time).

In the midst of this discussion, former Spain coach Julen Lopetegui made a comment that has caught the attention of the football world. In his words, the plan to trap Spain in high pressure is as easy to hear as it is to implement in reality. Lopetegui's analysis before the World Cup final—Ball possession, geometric passing and individual skill are the Spanish's biggest weapons.

Memories of eight years ago, but a different reality
There is real experience behind Lopetegui's words. In 2018, Spain defeated Lionel Messi-less Argentina 6-1 under his leadership at Madrid's new Metropolitano Stadium. In that match, the Spanish's passing, possession and control of the midfield were so perfect that many felt that the Argentine players were chasing shadows.

However, the 59-year-old Spanish coach is reluctant to draw any comparisons with that match to the World Cup final.

According to Lopetegui, tactics can be tested in friendly matches, but the World Cup final is a completely different mental and competitive reality. Here, every moment, every decision can change the fate of the match.

Spain's dominance against France
The biggest proof of Spain's strength was found in the semi-finals. La Rosa defeated France, the finalists of the last two World Cups, 2-0, to make it to the final. What is more surprising is that Spain kept attacking players like Kylian Mbappe inactive for almost the entire match. France failed to get a significant shot on target before the 80th minute.

After the match, some in the French camp were of the opinion that Spain should have been pushed higher from the start. But according to Lopetegui, the reality on the field is just as different as it seems on paper.

Not just one person, but the whole system has to be stopped
According to Lopetegui, pressing against Spain does not mean pressing a midfielder or a defender. Rather, it means surrounding multiple players who can get the ball at any moment, at the right distance, at the right time and in perfect coordination.

This requires the collective discipline of the entire team. Even a slight misplacement by one person opens up new passing lanes for Spain. And once that gap is created, the Spaniards can overcome the pressure and reach the opponent's defense in an instant.

Individual skill is also a big weapon
Lopetiggui believes that Spain's success is not limited to team coordination. Many of their footballers can get out of difficult situations with individual skills.

First touch under pressure, body balance, quick decisions or ball control in small spaces - these are the qualities that set Spanish footballers apart. As a result, Spain is often able to break through the pressure even when the opponent presses according to plan.

Whose strategy will be successful in the final?
Spain and Argentina - both teams love to tire the opponent by keeping possession of the ball. However, Lopetegui is putting Spain slightly ahead in terms of patiently building attacks from below. According to him, the more the opponent presses, the more opportunities Spain will have to find open space.

That is why the World Cup final is not just a fight for the trophy, but will also be a test of strategy, patience, ball control and decision-making ability. And who will ultimately succeed in that test - Spain's geometric passing, or Argentina's creativity - will be answered on the green carpet of New Jersey.