Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the 2026 World Cup, with Ferran Torres scoring the only goal in the 106th minute. The victory was built on Spain's possession-based style and miserly defence, which conceded just once in eight matches.
Dominant Display from Start to Finish
Spain controlled the final from the first whistle, enjoying the lion's share of possession and limiting Argentina to zero shots on target until the 115th minute. Argentina's lack of ambition was punished when Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card in the 83rd minute for a foul on Pau Cubarsí, reducing them to 10 men for the remainder of regulation time and extra time.
The goal came when Pedro Porro crossed deep, and substitute Nico Williams headed back across goal for Ferran Torres to smash high into the net. Torres later had a second goal ruled out for offside in the 113th minute.
Argentina's Disappointing Campaign Ends in Controversy
Argentina, the defending champions, failed to register a single shot on target until the 115th minute, when substitute Guiliano Simeone lashed a half-chance high. Lionel Messi, playing what is likely his final World Cup match, could not suppress tears after the final whistle. Argentina's reaction to defeat was widely condemned: players turned their backs on Spain during the trophy presentation, and substitute Leandro Paredes was shown a red card after full time for grabbing Spain's Eric García by the throat.
Spain's Patient Faith Rewarded
Spain's victory was a triumph of their identity—patient possession, cohesive movements, and control. Captain Rodi set the tempo from midfield, while Lamine Yamal provided flashes of brilliance. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez made 11 saves, including stops from Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, and Nico Williams, but could not keep out Torres's decisive strike. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente said after the match: "We stayed true to who we are. The players believed in the system, and it paid off."
Tournament's Bloated Presentation
The final was preceded by a lengthy ceremony featuring Jennifer Hudson's rendition of the US anthem and a video message from Madonna, who did not perform on the pitch. Tom Cruise also gave a speech about football. The match kicked off six minutes late, and the half-time show included a video of Madonna singing in the back of a car driven by Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.
