‘Spain will win, and easily’: Brazil’s Ronaldo makes his World Cup final prediction

Brazilian great Ronaldo Nazario has thrown his weight behind Spain ahead of Sunday's World Cup final against Argentina, tipping a straightforward win for the Europeans.

In comments carried by Spanish outlet AS, the former striker tipped Spain as clear favourites over Luis de la Fuente's men.

"I think Spain will win, and easily. They've always been favourites, along with France," Ronaldo said.

The final pits Spain against Lionel Messi's Argentina, the defending champions, on Sunday. Spain, meanwhile, are chasing just their second World Cup crown.

Explaining his pick, Ronaldo said Spain's approach to the game runs deep, shaped from their earliest days coming through the ranks.

"Spain plays football in an excellent way. It's in their DNA. They've been playing like this for many years, they've been doing it since they were little," he said.

The 1994 and 2002 World Cup winner also had words of praise for Argentina, who reached the final by beating England 2-1 in the last four.

"They had a very beautiful story in this World Cup. Argentina is a team that demonstrates a very beautiful spirit of overcoming adversity and fighting spirit, but Spain is very well-organized. They know what they need to do at each moment," he said.