Spain were crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging defending champions Argentina 1-0 following extra time in a tense final on Sunday, securing their second world title and first since 2010.
Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, converting from close range after an excellent assist from Nico Williams to end a tightly contested encounter at New York New Jersey Stadium.
The victory completes a remarkable campaign for Luis de la Fuente’s side, who combined disciplined defending with their trademark possession-based football. Spain conceded just one goal throughout the tournament, underlining their dominance on the road to lifting football’s biggest prize.
The final remained deadlocked throughout normal time despite Spain creating the better scoring opportunities. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced a series of outstanding saves to deny Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal and Nico Williams, keeping the reigning champions in the contest.
The turning point came deep into stoppage time when Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández was shown a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsí, reducing the South Americans to 10 men before extra time.
Spain capitalised on their numerical advantage, dominating possession before finally breaking the deadlock. Williams headed the ball into the path of Torres, who fired a powerful finish past Martínez to seal the championship.
Spain’s success was built on one of the tournament’s strongest defensive performances. The European champions controlled possession throughout the competition and consistently frustrated opponents with their organised back line.
Although the final lacked the attacking spectacle many had anticipated, Spain remained patient and disciplined before finding the breakthrough in extra time.
The triumph also makes Spain the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup titles.
Argentina entered the final aiming to retain the World Cup after an impressive campaign that included knockout victories over Egypt and England.
Captain Lionel Messi, playing at what could be his final World Cup, was largely contained by Spain’s defence. The 39-year-old managed only one effort, which failed to test the goalkeeper, as Spain successfully neutralised Argentina’s biggest attacking threat.
Despite Martínez’s outstanding performance in goal, Argentina struggled to create clear-cut chances and were unable to recover after Fernández’s dismissal.
The championship match attracted global attention both on and off the pitch. U.S. President Donald Trump attended the final, while the tournament featured its first-ever World Cup halftime entertainment show, with performances by Madonna, Justin Bieber and Shakira during an extended 27-minute interval.
However, the football itself was a physical and tactical contest interrupted by frequent stoppages, with Spain ultimately proving the more composed side.
Spain’s journey to the title highlighted the team’s growth over the course of the tournament. After opening with a goalless draw against Cape Verde, La Roja steadily improved, eliminating France in the semi-finals before overcoming Argentina in the final.
For head coach Luis de la Fuente, the World Cup triumph adds to an impressive record that already includes the UEFA Euro 2024 title, cementing Spain’s position among world football’s elite.
With Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner, Spain ended a 16-year wait to reclaim the FIFA World Cup, while Argentina’s reign as world champions came to an end after a resilient but ultimately unsuccessful title defence.
with additiona report from BBC
