Spain have lifted the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in a tense final decided in extra time at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States.
The decisive moment came in the 106th minute when Ferran Torres fired home the winning goal, sealing Spain’s second World Cup title after their first triumph in 2010.
The final began with both teams showing caution, but Spain quickly took control of possession, dominating the midfield and putting pressure on Argentina’s defence.
Argentina’s attacking threat was largely neutralised as Spain’s solid defensive structure denied Messi and his teammates the space to influence the game. The defending champions failed to test Spain’s goalkeeper with a shot on target, while Spain continued to dictate the tempo with their possession-based approach.
The game took another turn when Argentina were reduced to 10 players after Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card following a challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsí. The dismissal came during extra time, making Argentina’s comeback attempt even more challenging.
Spain finally broke the deadlock when Torres connected with a pass from Nico Williams and produced a powerful finish that beat Martínez, sending Spanish supporters into celebration.
The victory denied Argentina the chance to become the first men’s team since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive World Cup titles. It also marked what is expected to be Lionel Messi’s final appearance at football’s biggest tournament.
Spain’s triumph adds to a historic period for the country’s football, following their Euro 2024 success. The nation has now become the first country to hold both the men’s and women’s World Cup titles after Spain’s women won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Rodri was named the tournament’s best player and awarded the Golden Ball, while France captain Kylian Mbappé claimed the Golden Boot after finishing as the competition’s leading scorer with 10 goals.
Spain defender Pau Cubarsí was named the Best Young Player, while goalkeeper Unai Simón received the Golden Glove award after recording seven clean sheets during the tournament.
Young forward Lamine Yamal also entered the history books, becoming the first player under the age of 19 to appear in both a UEFA European Championship final and a FIFA World Cup final.
The victory marked another golden chapter in Spanish football history as the team celebrated their return to the top of world football.
