The Wait Is Over: Spain Chasing a Second Star

Some matches decide a champion.

Others define an entire generation.

Sixteen years after reaching the summit of world football in Johannesburg, Spain once again stands before the greatest challenge the game has to offer: becoming world champions. Ninety minutes—or perhaps a little longer—separate La Roja from a second FIFA World Cup star and another immortal chapter in the nation's footballing history.

And why not dream?

Spain's journey to the final has been one of steady growth and unwavering belief. After finishing top of their group, Luis de la Fuente's side have overcome every knockout challenge without needing extra time. Austria were dispatched in the Round of 16, Portugal were edged out in a fiercely contested Iberian derby, Belgium were beaten in a demanding quarter-final, and France—one of the tournament favourites—were outplayed in the semi-finals as Spain delivered one of their finest performances of the competition.

Four victories. Four decisive steps towards a World Cup Final that Spanish football has waited 16 years to experience once again.

Spain arrive as European champions; Argentina as South American champions.

One final obstacle remains—and it could scarcely be greater.

Standing in Spain's way are Argentina, the reigning world champions, chasing a fourth FIFA World Cup title and still inspired by Lionel Messi, who could be preparing for the final major chapter of an extraordinary career.

It is a meeting of two world champions, two footballing powerhouses and two teams that have earned their place in the biggest match of the tournament.

The setting is equally fitting.

New York/New Jersey Stadium, on the doorstep of one of the world's most iconic skylines, will provide the stage where millions of dreams converge. Just as Johannesburg did in 2010, it will witness a defining moment in the history of Spanish football and the culmination of a remarkable generation's journey.

Slavko Vinčić will referee the FIFA World Cup Final.

The rivalry between Spain and Argentina could hardly be more evenly balanced. The nations have met 14 times, with six victories each and two draws. Their only previous FIFA World Cup encounter came in the group stage of England 1966, when Argentina claimed a 2-1 victory. Even the goals are almost identical: Spain have scored 19, Argentina 18.

The most recent meeting, however, belonged emphatically to La Roja, who recorded a memorable 6-1 victory in Madrid.

Sixteen years have passed since Andrés Iniesta's unforgettable goal changed the course of Spanish football forever.

Sixteen years of hope, hard work and anticipation have led to this moment.

Now, only one task remains: compete, believe and embrace an opportunity reserved for the very few.

History is knocking on Spain's door once again.

This generation intends to throw it wide open, stitch a second star above the crest and return to the summit of world football.