Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to secure the nation’s second World Cup title.
The thrilling final at the New York New Jersey Stadium remained goalless after regulation time before Torres produced a clinical left-footed finish in extra time, ending Argentina’s hopes of retaining the trophy and leaving captain Lionel Messi and his teammates heartbroken.
Spain’s triumph marks their first FIFA World Cup title since their historic victory in 2010 and completes an impressive run after winning consecutive major international tournaments.
Ferran Torres scripts World Cup final glory
After an evenly contested 90 minutes, Spain finally broke the deadlock in the second half of extra time when Ferran Torres found the back of the net with a powerful strike in the 106th minute.
Spain had earlier seen a goal by Nico Williams ruled out during extra time following a foul in the build-up, but continued to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities.
Argentina were reduced to 10 men after midfielder Enzo Fernández received a red card late in the second half, making the challenge even tougher for the defending champions during extra time.
Emiliano Martínez shines despite defeat
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez delivered a remarkable performance despite the defeat, making 11 saves, the highest by a goalkeeper in a FIFA World Cup final.
However, his heroics were ultimately not enough to deny Spain, whose persistent attacking play finally earned the breakthrough.
Spain dominate tournament awards
Spain capped their memorable campaign by sweeping the tournament’s major individual honours.
- Rodri won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player.
- Goalkeeper Unai Simón claimed the Golden Glove award.
- Young defender Pau Cubarsí was named Young Player of the Tournament.
Spain also finished the tournament with the best defensive record, conceding just one goal throughout the competition.
Emotional end for Lionel Messi
Following the final whistle, Argentina collected their runners-up medals as an emotional Lionel Messi reflected on a campaign that ended just one step short of another world title.
The defeat brought Argentina’s reign as world champions to an end after an impressive tournament in which they reached another final through a series of resilient knockout performances.
Spain’s victory also denied Argentina the chance to become the first nation to win four consecutive major international trophies.
With the triumph, Spain added a second FIFA World Cup crown to their footballing legacy, while Ferran Torres etched his name into history alongside Andrés Iniesta as one of the country’s World Cup final heroes.
