Spain claimed its second FIFA World Cup title on Sunday after defeating defending champions Argentina 1 0 in extra time in the 2026 final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the only goal in the 106th minute, ending Argentina’s reign as world champions and giving Spain its first World Cup triumph since 2010.
For more than 100 minutes, Spain controlled the contest but could not find a breakthrough against an Argentine side determined to defend its title. The European champions enjoyed most of the possession, created the better scoring opportunities and repeatedly tested goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who produced a series of important saves to keep the match level.
The breakthrough finally arrived early in extra time when Nico Williams kept Spain’s attack alive inside the penalty area before setting up Torres. The substitute struck a low finish beyond Martinez to send the Spanish supporters into celebration and hand his country the goal that ultimately decided the World Cup final.
Argentina struggled to establish any attacking rhythm throughout the match. Captain Lionel Messi found little space against Spain’s organized defense as the South American side failed to register a shot during regulation time, highlighting Spain’s dominance in one of football’s biggest occasions.
Argentina’s challenge became even more difficult late in the second half after midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card and was sent off. Reduced to 10 players, the defending champions were forced deeper into their own half but could not prevent Spain from finding the winning goal.
Spain’s victory reflected another disciplined team performance under coach Luis de la Fuente. Midfielders Rodri and Pedri controlled the tempo, while the defense restricted Argentina’s attacking threats. Goalkeeper Unai Simon had little to do for much of the match as Spain maintained control from start to finish.
The triumph secured Spain’s second World Cup crown, adding to the title won in South Africa in 2010. It also continued the country’s recent success following its European Championship victory, confirming Spain’s return as one of the dominant forces in international football.
For Argentina, the defeat brought an end to its reign as world champion after lifting the trophy in Qatar four years earlier. Although the result was disappointing, reaching another World Cup final reinforced the country’s standing among the world’s elite football nations.
The final also concluded the first 48 team FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The expanded tournament attracted record attendance and worldwide television audiences, reflecting football’s growing global appeal and FIFA’s efforts to broaden participation.
As Spain celebrated with the World Cup trophy, the victory marked another historic achievement for one of football’s most successful national teams. For Argentina, the defeat closed the chapter on its title defense, while Spain’s triumph opened a new era for a squad that has once again reached the summit of world football.
