Scaloni sings Argentina anthem before World Cup final with Spain
Telemundo footage showed Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni visibly emotional before the 2026 World Cup final against Spain in New York.
By Sal Moretti · Money Reporter
3 min read
Lionel Scaloni was shown wearing his heart on his sleeve before a ball had even been kicked in the World Cup final.
Telemundo reported that the Argentina coach, described by the network as visibly emotional, sang Argentina’s national anthem ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain in New York on July 19, 2026.
The 2-minute, 42-second video focused on Scaloni during the pre-match ceremony, with Telemundo identifying him as the World Cup-winning manager from Pujato, Argentina.
According to Telemundo, Scaloni and Argentina entered the final looking to defend their title against Spain. The network’s coverage framed the match as Argentina’s chance to chase back-to-back World Cup glory.
A final loaded with storylines
Telemundo’s surrounding World Cup coverage put the anthem moment inside a packed final-day build-up in New York.
The network also reported that Argentina and Spain supporters had gathered to watch the final, while another segment said Argentina was preparing for the big stage against Spain in New York.
Argentina’s captain, Lionel Messi, was also central to Telemundo’s coverage. One listed segment showed Messi giving a pre-match rallying message before Argentina came out to defend its world title.
Telemundo also highlighted Argentina’s arrival in New York, saying Messi and the national team were there to make history and pursue a second consecutive world championship.
Spain’s shot at another star
Spain’s side of the final was also presented as a major moment. Telemundo described Spain as chasing a second star with a squad full of young talent.
In another segment listed by the network, Spain player Marc Cucurella said the team knew it had a unique opportunity. Telemundo also reported that a Spain assistant said the team was calm and confident before the match.
The pre-final coverage included more Argentina voices as well. Juan Musso was quoted by Telemundo as saying the players remained the same kids who dreamed of playing a World Cup. Roberto Ayala was quoted as saying that the neighborhood spirit inside each footballer would come out on the day.
Big names around the trophy
Telemundo’s final-day package also pointed to a star-heavy scene around the match. The network listed a segment saying Andrés Iniesta, Mario Kempes, Carlos Alcaraz and Hoyeon presented the World Cup trophy.
Another Telemundo segment said the final drew names ranging from Zinedine Zidane to Rihanna. The halftime show, according to the network’s listings, featured Justin Bieber, Shakira, Madonna and BTS.
For Scaloni, though, Telemundo’s pre-match clip centered on one quiet, charged moment: Argentina’s coach singing the anthem before a final against Spain, with a world title defense on the line in New York.
This story draws on original reporting from TELEMUNDO.com.