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Spain have been crowned the 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after defeating defending champions Argentina in an intense final that went into extra time.
La Roja secured a 1-0 victory thanks to an extra-time goal from Ferran Torres, ending a 16-year wait for their second World Cup title. Torres found the breakthrough after both teams had battled through a goalless 90 minutes.
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The final, played before a crowd of 82,500 at New York New Jersey Stadium, saw Spain dominate possession and create the better scoring opportunities, while Argentina struggled to break through Spain’s disciplined defence.
Argentina’s hopes suffered a major setback deep into stoppage time when midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for a foul on Pau Cubarsí, reducing the South Americans to 10 men before extra time.
Spain continued to press for a winner, with substitute Nico Williams posing a constant threat. In the 94th minute of extra time, Williams came close to scoring with a powerful header, but Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced a crucial save.
Moments later, Ferran Torres finally broke the deadlock, scoring the decisive goal that sealed Spain’s victory and sparked celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters.
After the final whistle, Spain celebrated their second FIFA World Cup triumph, adding it to their 2010 title, while Argentina’s players were left heartbroken. Lionel Messi was seen sitting on the pitch after the match, taking in what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance.
Argentina, who won the World Cup in 1978, 1986 and 2022, were unable to retain their crown despite reaching another final.
Individual awards
- Best Young Player: Pau Cubarsí (Spain)
- Golden Glove: Unai Simón (Spain)
- Golden Ball (Player of the Tournament): Rodri (Spain)
Spain vs Argentina rivalry
The 2026 final marked only the second World Cup meeting between Spain and Argentina. Their first encounter came during the 1966 World Cup group stage, where Argentina won 2-1.
Before the 2026 final, the two nations had faced each other 16 times across all competitions, with both teams recording six wins each and two matches ending in draws. Spain’s World Cup final victory gives them the latest triumph in one of international football’s closely contested rivalries.
