Argentina stars benched for Spain match

Lionel Scaloni left Lautaro Martínez, Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina and Nicolás Otamendi on the bench for the FIFA World Cup final against Spain.

Scaloni chose Julián Álvarez to start alongside Lionel Messi for his pressing and movement, while Martínez was benched.

The midfield trio of Enzo Fernández, Rodrigo De Paul and Alexis Mac Allister was selected over Leandro Paredes for energy and press.

Gonzalo Montiel replaced Nahuel Molina at right-back for defensive balance against Spain's wide attackers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams.

Lisandro Martínez partnered Cristian Romero in central defence, replacing Nicolás Otamendi to improve speed and pressing.