Spain were crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after Ferran Torres scored an extra-time winner to secure a 1-0 victory over defending champions Argentina in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium.
Torres struck in the 106th minute, firing home from close range after Nico Williams headed Pedro Porro’s cross into his path, sealing Spain’s second World Cup title and denying Lionel Messi a fairytale farewell in what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance.
Spain dominated much of the contest, controlling possession and creating the better chances, while Argentina failed to register a single shot on target over 120 minutes.
The final, watched by a crowd of 80,663 that included U.S. President Donald Trump, saw Spain dictate the tempo from the opening stages as Argentina struggled to break their rhythm.
The match was marked by several physical challenges, with both teams involved in a series of robust tackles. Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off in stoppage time after a dangerous challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsí, leaving the defending champions with 10 men.
Despite Spain’s dominance, Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced a string of important saves to keep his side in the contest, denying Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams on multiple occasions.
Williams thought he had broken the deadlock in extra time, but his effort was ruled out for a foul before Torres eventually found the breakthrough moments later.
Argentina mounted a late push for an equaliser, but Spain held firm to secure victory and lift the World Cup for the first time since their maiden triumph in 2010.
The victory ended Argentina’s reign as world champions and dashed Messi’s hopes of concluding his international career with a second World Cup title.
