Former Spanish defender Gerard Piqué, a 2010 World Cup champion, said that the final match today Sunday between his country's team and Argentina in New York represents 'the final that was not held in Qatar,' noting that it will be one of the best finals in World Cup history.

Piqué, 39, affirmed in an interview with Spanish newspaper 'AS' that 'La Roja' is capable of winning its second star 16 years after the achievement in South Africa, provided they adhere to their attacking style and control possession against an Argentine team led by Lionel Messi, who seeks to win his second consecutive title.

The former Barcelona star praised his friend Messi, 39, despite playing in the American league, describing him as 'the smartest,' emphasizing that 'his innate talent enables him to find dangerous positions near the penalty area despite his age.'

Piqué warned the Spanish national team of the 'physical contact' that South American teams excel at, noting that Spain historically struggles against this style, as happened in the match against Uruguay during the current tournament.

He believes the key to victory lies in 'boldness, high pressing, and ball control,' warning that giving Argentina spaces near the penalty area would be extremely dangerous, especially with Messi, who 'always finds a way to get around defenders.'

He noted that Luis de la Fuente's team is very similar to the 2010 generation, stressing that 'charisma comes after winning, not before,' praising the defensive performance that conceded only one goal throughout the tournament.

In response to a question about his bias between Spain and his friend Messi, Piqué said: 'I hope Spain wins, but if Argentina wins, I'll be happy for Messi too,' adding that he will watch the match with his children at the stadium after receiving an invitation from FIFA.

Piqué revealed that Spanish star Lamine Yamal, if he becomes world champion today, will participate with his team in the third edition of the 'Kings League' tournament, which will be held soon in Milan, Italy, and which is organized by Piqué himself.