Storms disrupt World Cup final training session

Argentina’s final preparations for tonight’s FIFA World Cup final against Spain were disrupted by severe thunderstorms on Saturday, with the defending champions forced to delay their training session by about 45 minutes, while Spain cancelled its outdoor practice altogether because of lightning and heavy rain.

Argentina, led by captain Lionel Messi, eventually took to the field at the RWJBarnabas Health Red Bulls Performance Center after weather conditions improved. The squad initially completed an indoor activation session before being cleared to train outdoors.

Spain, meanwhile, remained indoors after safety officials called off the team’s scheduled training session under U.S. lightning protocols. Players instead carried out gym-based exercises as head coach Luis de la Fuente made final preparations for the biggest match of the tournament.

The storms also helped improve air quality in the New York-New Jersey area after concerns earlier in the week over smoke drifting south from Canadian wildfires. Tournament organisers have indicated that weather conditions are expected to be favourable for the final, with no disruption anticipated for kick-off.

The championship match will be played at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, where more than 80,000 fans are expected to witness the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Argentina is chasing a fourth World Cup title after defeating England 2-1 in the semi-finals, while Spain secured its place in the final with a 2-0 victory over France.

Much of the attention will focus on Argentina captain Lionel Messi, who has once again inspired his side with a series of decisive performances and now has the opportunity to add another World Cup winner’s medal to his remarkable career. Spain, meanwhile, has impressed throughout the tournament with its disciplined defence, composed possession-based football and clinical finishing.

Security has been heightened around the stadium ahead of the final, while FIFA expects one of the largest global television audiences of the year as football’s two remaining contenders battle for the sport’s biggest prize.

Kick-off is scheduled for 3 p.m. EDT (11.30 p.m. Kabul time), with fans across the globe eagerly awaiting what promises to be a thrilling World Cup final.

Fans in Afghanistan however can tune in to Ariana Television from 10 p.m. to watch the preshow where commentators will discuss the upcoming match.

Fans in Afghanistan are also encouraged to follow ATN and Ariana News’ social media pages for updated news and information.