Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win 2026 FIFA World Cup final

Spain have been crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a dramatic final played on Sunday.

Substitute Ferran Torres proved to be the match-winner, scoring the decisive goal in the second period of extra time to hand La Roja their second FIFA World Cup title, ending a 16-year wait since lifting their first trophy in South Africa in 2010.

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez delivered a series of outstanding saves to keep his side in the contest throughout regulation time and extra time. However, the defending champions suffered a major setback in second-half stoppage time when midfielder Enzo Fernández was shown a second yellow card and sent off for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsí.

Reduced to 10 men, Argentina struggled to contain Spain’s relentless pressure. The breakthrough eventually arrived in extra time when Nico Williams produced a brilliant assist for Torres, who calmly fired past Martínez to seal victory for the European champions.

Spain completed an outstanding tournament campaign under head coach Luis de la Fuente, combining disciplined defending with their trademark possession-based style. They conceded only one goal throughout the tournament while consistently dominating matches with technical quality and tactical discipline.

Argentina, captained by Lionel Messi in what is widely expected to be his final FIFA World Cup appearance, produced a spirited run to the final. The South Americans staged memorable comeback victories over Egypt and England during the knockout rounds but were unable to overcome Spain’s resilient defence in the championship match.

The victory secures Spain’s second FIFA World Cup crown after their historic triumph in 2010, while ending Argentina’s hopes of successfully defending the title they won in Qatar four years earlier.