Spain’s FIFA World Cup-winning squad received a rousing welcome on their arrival in Madrid on Monday ahead of a victory parade through the Spanish capital, a day after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final.
La Roja claimed their second men’s FIFA World Cup title after Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time to secure a 1–0 victory at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States, one of the tournament’s three co-host nations alongside Mexico and Canada.
The triumph sparked celebrations across Spain, with thousands of supporters expected to line the streets of Madrid as the players parade the World Cup trophy.
Meanwhile, Argentina returned home amid controversy following chaotic scenes after the final whistle, prompting FIFA to open an investigation into the conduct of members of the defeated team.
Football’s world governing body said it would review the post-match incidents before deciding whether disciplinary action was warranted.
The final remained goalless throughout normal time before Torres broke the deadlock early in the second period of extra time, handing Spain the title and denying Argentina captain Lionel Messi what is widely expected to be his final opportunity to win the FIFA World Cup.
The defeat marked a disappointing end to the tournament for the 39-year-old, with the post-match controversy further overshadowing what is expected to be his farewell appearance on football’s biggest stage.
