Spain were crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in Sunday’s final at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the second period of extra time, securing Spain’s second World Cup title and their first since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010.
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced a series of crucial saves to keep his side in the contest, but the holders’ task became more difficult after midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off in stoppage time at the end of normal time following a second yellow card for a foul on Pau Cubarsí.
Spain dominated possession during extra time and eventually found the breakthrough when Nico Williams set up Torres, who fired home the winning goal in the 104th minute.
Luis de la Fuente’s side completed an impressive tournament with another disciplined defensive display, conceding only one goal in seven matches as they combined defensive resilience with their trademark possession-based style.
Argentina, captained by Lionel Messi, reached the final after overcoming Egypt in the knockout stages and defeating England in the semi-finals, but were unable to break down a well-organised Spanish defence. The defeat brought an end to Argentina’s reign as world champions and denied Messi a second successive World Cup title.
The victory secured Spain’s second World Cup crown, 16 years after their maiden triumph in 2010, and capped an outstanding campaign in which they established themselves as the tournament’s standout team.
