Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a gripping final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored the match-winning goal in the 106th minute, helping La Roja lift their second FIFA World Cup trophy, 16 years after their maiden triumph in South Africa in 2010.
The final remained goalless after 90 minutes despite Spain dominating possession and creating the majority of the chances. Argentina’s resistance was finally broken in extra time when Nico Williams headed the ball into the path of Ferran Torres, who finished clinically from close range to seal Spain’s victory.
Spain’s Dominance Pays Off
Spain controlled the contest from start to finish, registering 20 shots, including 12 on target, while Argentina failed to register a single shot throughout the match. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced a series of outstanding saves to keep the defending champions in the contest, including several crucial stops in normal and extra time. Spain also had two goals ruled out during the match—one for a foul in the build-up and another for offside—before finally finding the decisive breakthrough.
The victory capped an impressive tournament for Spain, who defeated Portugal in the Round of 16, Belgium in the quarter-finals, France in the semi-finals and Argentina in the final to reclaim football’s biggest prize.
Argentina’s Title Defence Ends
Argentina entered the final as defending champions after lifting the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Led by Lionel Messi, the South American side struggled to impose themselves against Spain’s relentless pressing and disciplined defence.
Their challenge became even more difficult after midfielder Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card late in regulation time, reducing Argentina to 10 men before extra time. Despite Martínez’s heroics between the posts, Argentina could not recover after conceding in the 106th minute, ending their hopes of retaining the title.
Spain Return to the Summit of World Football
The victory marks Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title and completes a remarkable resurgence for a team built around a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging stars. The triumph also reinforces Spain’s status as one of international football’s dominant forces after winning UEFA Euro 2024 and now the FIFA World Cup.
For Argentina, the defeat ends their reign as world champions and is expected to mark the final FIFA World Cup appearance of Lionel Messi. Earlier in the tournament, England secured third place after defeating France 6-4 in the playoff.
