New Jersey: Spain etched its name into football history on Sunday night by defeating reigning champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending a 16-year wait for football's biggest prize. The victory delivered Spain's second men's World Cup title and capped a remarkable tournament campaign built on tactical discipline, defensive excellence and clinical finishing
The decisive moment arrived in the 106th minute, when substitute Ferran Torres found space inside the penalty area and fired home the match-winning goal after relentless Spanish pressure. The strike broke Argentina's resistance and proved enough to deny Lionel Messi a successful defense of the trophy in what is widely expected to be his final FIFA World Cup appearance.
Throughout the final, Spain controlled possession and dictated the tempo while Argentina relied on disciplined defending and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez to remain in contention. Despite several crucial saves from Martínez, Spain continued to create the better opportunities before Torres finally broke the deadlock in extra time.
Spain's triumph was the culmination of an exceptional tournament under coach Luis de la Fuente, whose side combined attacking flair with one of the tournament's strongest defensive records. Midfielder Rodri was widely recognised for his commanding performances throughout the competition and finished among the tournament's standout players.
For Argentina, the defeat brought a heartbreaking conclusion to an impressive campaign. Lionel Messi and his teammates fought until the final whistle but were unable to find an equaliser, bringing an end to their hopes of retaining the World Cup crown after their 2022 success.
