The FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina took place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday, drawing significant attention from fans and international leaders. The stadium was shrouded in haze caused by hundreds of wildfires burning in Canada, with time-lapse footage showing visibility significantly reduced by smoke. Thousands of Spanish and Argentinian supporters gathered in New York City, including in the city’s Little Argentina neighborhood, to celebrate ahead of the match.
US President Donald Trump attended the final, arriving by helicopter approximately 45 minutes before kickoff. His presence at the stadium resulted in extended security checks and logistical delays for attendees and media personnel, according to reports from journalists on site. Trump sat alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino to watch the match, and observers noted there was minimal reaction from the crowd upon his arrival.
New York City officials, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani, viewed the World Cup hosting as an opportunity to showcase the city on the global stage. Supporters expressed enthusiasm about the event, with fans describing the occasion as potentially “the best day of my life.”
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Featured photo by Ernesto Cristales on Unsplash