World Cup Final Focus: Spain are slight favourites over defending champions Argentina, with an Opta supercomputer giving Luis de la Fuente’s side a 59% chance to win Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium, where Lionel Messi’s Argentina are chasing history as only the third team to defend the trophy. Messi’s Run: Messi leads the tournament’s scoring race with eight goals and four assists, and Scaloni calls him “pure history” ahead of what could be his last World Cup appearance. Spain’s Route: Spain reach their first final since 2010 on a mix of Lamine Yamal’s spark and a standout defence that has conceded just one goal in seven matches, including a 2-0 semi-final win over France. Cabo Verde Link: Spain’s campaign included a group-stage draw against Cabo Verde, a reminder of the island nation’s World Cup impact. Local Community Spotlight: Dublin City Council will host a civic welcome for Cabo Verde international Pico Lopes on July 25, celebrating his role in Cabo Verde’s World Cup journey. Travel Rules Watch: Russia has published visa-free entry conditions for select African countries, with South Africa the main exception for ordinary passports.