Spain claim second World Cup title with extra-time victory over Argentina
Defending champions Argentina were held to a 1-0 defeat at MetLife Stadium, with Lionel Messi rated 3/10 for his lack of impact in a one-sided final.
Spain have been crowned World Cup champions for the second time in their history after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time at the 2026 final. The victory, secured at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, marks the culmination of a tournament in which Spain, managed by Luis de la Fuente, established themselves as the most complete side in the competition.
The decisive moment arrived in the 105th minute when substitute Ferran Torres hammered home from six yards after Nico Williams kept the ball alive from a deep cross. Torres, who scored his 25th international goal, later had a second strike disallowed for offside in the dying moments of extra time. The goal completed a Euro 2024-World Cup 2026 double for Spain under manager Luis de la Fuente.
The match was dominated by Spain, who restricted Argentina to minimal attacking opportunities. Argentina registered zero touches in the Spanish box during the entire first half and had to wait until the 118th minute to register their first shot of the match. Spain had the majority of possession, with Argentina playing just two passes in Spain’s third of the pitch in the opening half hour.
Despite the control, Spain struggled to break down goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who made 11 saves and earned a 9/10 rating from ESPN. The Argentine keeper denied Lamine Yamal early on and comfortably saved efforts from Mikel Oyarzabal before being unable to stop Torres’ winner. Martínez was Argentina’s key man, but his efforts were undermined by a chaotic finish where midfielder Enzo Fernández was red-carded in injury time for a “daft challenge.”
Argentina captain Lionel Messi was rated 3/10 by ESPN for his lack of impact, having just one touch in the first 15 minutes. The South Americans also suffered a blow when defender Lisandro Martínez was replaced by Nicolás Otamendi shortly before half-time due to a game-ending injury. Spain’s Pau Cubarsí was named Young Player of the Tournament, reflecting the authority shown by the 19-year-old centre-back.
