The report says Spain have generally controlled their knockout campaign, looking comfortable against Portugal and France before requiring a late goal to overcome Belgium. That measured approach has made them one of the tournament’s most reliable sides.
Argentina’s route has reportedly been more dramatic. Lionel Messi and his team needed late goals against Egypt, Switzerland and England, including two after the break to end England’s campaign. Their ability to survive tight matches could prove decisive if Spain’s control begins to loosen.
Cucurella has reportedly played every minute of Spain’s run, becoming one of De la Fuente’s most trusted players. His form has drawn attention, but so has his availability: the left-back has remained a constant while Spain have navigated the pressure of the knockout stage.
Speaking before the match, Cucurella said: “I prefer being bald than having a tattoo of the Barcelona badge.” That earlier remark makes his latest promise even more striking. A Spanish victory would leave him facing a very different kind of football-related tattoo.
Spain appear to have the steadier platform, while Argentina offer the greater sense of late danger. The final is scheduled for Sunday, 19 July, at 20:00 BST, according to the report, with both sides now one win from defining their tournament.
For Spain, the next storyline is whether possession and control can finally deliver another world title. For Cucurella, there is an even more personal question: whether victory will turn a bold promise into permanent reality.