Spain were crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in a dramatic final that was settled in extra time at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.
After 90 minutes of tense, goalless football, substitute Ferran Torres emerged as Spain’s hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to hand La Roja their second FIFA World Cup title and end a 16-year wait for football’s biggest prize.
Spain dominated possession for much of the encounter and created the better scoring opportunities, but Argentina’s resilient defence and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez kept the European champions at bay throughout regulation time. Martínez produced a series of outstanding saves to deny Spain before Torres finally broke the deadlock in extra time.
Argentina’s hopes of forcing a penalty shootout suffered a major setback after midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off late in regulation, leaving Lionel Scaloni’s side to finish the contest with 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the South Americans fought bravely but were unable to find an equaliser.
The defeat marked the end of Argentina’s reign as world champions and is widely expected to be the final FIFA World Cup appearance for captain Lionel Messi, bringing an end to one of the greatest international careers in football history.
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among Spain’s players and supporters as head coach Luis de la Fuente guided the nation to another historic triumph. However, emotions boiled over after the match, with a brief confrontation involving players from both teams before officials restored order.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final, staged before a packed crowd and a global television audience, concluded the first-ever 48-team edition of the tournament, with Spain finishing as worthy champions after an impressive campaign.
Result: Spain 1-0 Argentina (after extra time)
Goalscorer: Ferran Torres (106′)
