Lionel Scaloni backs 'focused' Argentina to deliver in FIFA World Cup final

Scaloni said the key to success is staying focused on the football rather than the occasion, despite the magnitude of the final.

"We prepare the same way we do for every match," Scaloni said. "We're eager for things to go well, ready to analyse our opponent and see what we can do during the game. Beyond the fact that it's a final, it's still a football match."

The Argentina boss believes his players must deliver their best performance if they are to overcome Spain.

"We need to be at our best to win," he said. "We don't go into it thinking it's a World Cup final because otherwise you can lose focus. We'll see what happens."

Scaloni is pleased with the form his team has shown during the tournament, particularly in recent matches.

"I think the team has shown positive things, especially in the last few matches," he said. "The second half against England was very good. We're doing well, although there are always things to improve. We'll try to win the final."

The coach also praised the passion of Argentina's supporters, saying their backing has inspired the squad throughout the competition.

"You see your people celebrating and how happy they are. It really gets to you," Scaloni said. "We play for them, for our families and for everyone waiting to watch the national team. We've brought people together again, and that means a lot to us."

Scaloni expects a fascinating contest against Spain, a team he believes shares many of Argentina's football principles.

"We have similar ideas," he said. "Both teams build through possession and like to attack with the ball. Hopefully Sunday will be a great spectacle."

He dismissed suggestions that Argentina's experience in major finals will give them a significant advantage.

"Spain also have players who have performed on the biggest stages for their clubs," he said. "When the match starts, players forget about the pressure. I don't think experience will be a handicap for either team."

The Argentina coach confirmed his staff have studied Spain closely but warned against overcomplicating preparations.

"We know how they play and we know their strengths," Scaloni said. "We'll try to stop them using those strengths, but overanalysing isn't good either."

Asked what concerns him most about Spain, Scaloni joked there is plenty to worry about.

"Everything worries me, even the bus leaving their hotel," he said with a smile. "They're a great team and they've done an excellent job under Luis de la Fuente."

Scaloni also refused to speculate on whether Sunday's final could be Lionel Messi's last World Cup appearance.

"You'll have to ask him," he said. "He never stops surprising us."

Instead, the Argentina manager focused on praising the captain's remarkable performances at the age of 39.

"He is history. He is a legend," Scaloni said. "To reach another World Cup final at 39 is incredible. We have to enjoy what he's doing because players like him don't come along often."

Scaloni also thanked Messi and the rest of the squad for what they have achieved during his time in charge.

"I've told him what this group has done is incredible," he said. "The coaching staff will always be grateful. Of course we want to win the final, but whatever happens, this journey has been amazing and these players have set an example for everyone."

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