PREVIEW | A place in history beckons

The World Cup began way back on 20 July, and a month later it comes to a close with a novel final. Irrespective of whether Spain or England win, it will be the first time either side wins the ultimate prize. The game kicks off this Sunday at 12.00pm CEST.

Whatever the outcome, the Barça family will be happy as there are nine and two blaugrana players in the Spanish and English squads respectively. So, with the final two positions still to be decided, we already know that 12 Barça players will receive a medal, after Fridolina Rolfö and Sweden defeated Australia to finish third with a bronze.

Turning our attention back to the finalists, let's not forget that almost every one of the 11 players have played key roles for the national sides. Three of the nine Spanish players have started every game, with one, Irene Paredes, having played every minute. The other two, Ona Batlle and the impressive Aitana Bonmatí, have hardly rested, showing their undoubted value to coach Jorge Vilda.

Another two have been involved in every game, namely Alexia Putellas and Salma Paralluelo. The Balón D'Or winner started three of the six games, while the forward has made two truly decisive appearances, scoring in the quarterfinal and semifinal. Mariona Caldentey has played a similar role, only being rested for the round of 16 against Switzerland and scoring in the quarterfinal against the Netherlands.

Central defender Laia Codina and goalkeeper Cata Coll could be said to have had almost identical tournaments. Neither player in the group stage, but they have been permanent fixtures ever since, performing really well. Only young player Maria Pérez hasn't had much involvement, but still played almost thirty minutes in the big win against Switzerland.

When it comes to England, Keira Walsh and Lucy Bronze are simply fixtures in their side and are expected to be in the final line-up. They have started every fixture, apart from Keira who missed one group game due to injury.

Spain and England meet in a historic World Cup final and Barça fans have every reason to follow the proceedings closely - well at least eleven!