ARGENTINA and Spain have a lot in common, from their language and culture to their globally admired football philosophies. Yet when they meet in today’s FIFA World Cup final, there will be no room for sharing as only one will be crowned world champions.

For the second time in a row, football’s global showpiece will be decided from a clash between a giant of South America and a European powerhouse, this time at the New York New Jersey Stadium, starting at 2:00 pm.

Security concerns in Qatar prevented defending world and Copa América champions Argentina and European champions Spain from meeting in the postponed Finalissima in March. Four months later, fate has delivered an even bigger prize as they battle for the FIFA World Cup title with some of the world’s best players on show.