The Argentina national team’s arrival in New Jersey for the 2026 World Cup final against Spain was delayed by an electrical storm in Atlanta, according to Reuters. The delegation remained at their hotel until approximately 20:00, after which they boarded flights to the MetLife Stadium region for the Sunday championship match.
Weather Disruptions and Training in Atlanta
A severe thunderstorm halted flight operations in Atlanta, forcing Lionel Scaloni’s squad to wait for airport clearance. The delay occurred shortly after the team completed their first training session following a 2-1 semifinal victory over England.
According to Reuters, the practice at the Atlanta United complex focused on recovery for starters and high-intensity drills for substitutes. Reports from the session noted Lionel Messi, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernández, and Julián Álvarez training barefoot on the grass during the initial stages of the workout.
Did you know? Enzo Fernández posted a photo with Messi and Paredes on Instagram set to “Wonderwall” by Oasis. Since the song is a staple of English football celebrations, fans viewed the choice as a direct nod to England’s elimination.
Scaloni Weighs Lineup Changes for the Final
Coach Lionel Scaloni indicated that the starting eleven may change for the match against Spain. He specifically addressed the possibility of benching Rodrigo De Paul, stating, “How can it not hurt me to leave Rodrigo De Paul on the bench… I feel identified with him because of the way he plays.”
Scaloni told reporters that while such decisions are difficult, they are made based on what the match requires and for the overall benefit of the team, adding, “We can be wrong, but all decisions are for the good of the team.”
FIFA Disciplinary Review of Malvinas Flag
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) is awaiting a ruling from FIFA regarding the display of a Malvinas flag during the celebration after the semifinal against England. The flag was thrown onto the pitch by fans and subsequently held by players.
Infobae contacted FIFA sources, who stated that the independent Disciplinary Committee is currently evaluating match reports and relevant circumstances under the Disciplinary Code. The code explicitly prohibits banners or flags of a political, offensive, or discriminatory nature.
Precedent and Potential Penalties
FIFA has a history of penalizing similar incidents. In 2014, the governing body fined the AFA $27,000 following a similar occurrence during a friendly match against Slovenia.
| Incident | Context | Outcome/Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 Slovenia Friendly | Malvinas flag display | $27,000 Fine |
| 2026 World Cup Semifinal | Malvinas flag on pitch | Under Review |
Final Schedule at MetLife Stadium
The team is now centered in New Jersey for the final push. The itinerary includes a training session this Friday with partial press access and a mixed zone for player interviews. Scaloni is scheduled to hold his final pre-match press conference on Saturday.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the World Cup final?
The final takes place this Sunday at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Why was the Argentina flight delayed?
An electrical storm in Atlanta disrupted airport operations, delaying the team’s departure.
Could Argentina be penalized for the Malvinas flag?
Yes. FIFA’s Disciplinary Code prohibits political banners. A previous similar incident in 2014 resulted in a $27,000 fine.
Will Rodrigo De Paul start in the final?
It is uncertain. Coach Lionel Scaloni has stated that he may make changes to the lineup based on the needs of the match.
What do you think about Scaloni’s potential lineup changes? Should De Paul start regardless? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for live coverage of the final.
