Spain have been crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after edging 10-man Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a tense final at the MetLife Stadium, securing their second world title and denying Lionel Messi a successful defence of the trophy.
Ferran Torres emerged the hero for La Roja, scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to hand Spain their first World Cup title since 2010 and cap an impressive tournament campaign.
Spain controlled possession from the opening whistle and created the better chances throughout the contest. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal threatened early, forcing Emiliano Martínez into an important save, while Dani Olmo, Marc Cucurella and Mikel Oyarzabal also tested the Argentina goalkeeper before halftime.
Despite Spain’s dominance, the opening 90 minutes ended goalless in what became one of the most cagey World Cup finals in recent history. Argentina struggled to create meaningful opportunities, with Lionel Messi largely contained by Spain’s disciplined defence.
The defending champions suffered a major setback deep into stoppage time when midfielder Enzo Fernández was shown a second yellow card for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsí, reducing Argentina to ten men heading into extra time.
Spain thought they had broken the deadlock early in extra time through Nico Williams, but the goal was ruled out after referee Slavko Vinčić penalised Mikel Merino for a foul in the build-up.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 106th minute. Nico Williams headed the ball into the path of Ferran Torres, who reacted quickest inside the penalty area before firing a powerful finish past Martínez to send the Spanish supporters into celebration.
Argentina pushed for a late equaliser despite being a man down but could not find a way through as Spain held firm to claim football’s biggest prize.
The victory secured Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title, 16 years after their maiden triumph in South Africa, while extending their unbeaten international run to 38 matches.
For Argentina, the defeat ended their reign as world champions and could mark Lionel Messi’s final appearance at the FIFA World Cup after an illustrious international career.
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Story by Xavier Mensah | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
