Spain are world champions for the second time after defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New York New Jersey.
The final remained goalless through the opening 90 minutes, with both sides battling for control and creating a tense contest. Neither team could find the breakthrough during regulation time, sending the match into extra time.
Ferran Torres Delivers the Decisive Moment
Spain finally broke the deadlock in the 106th minute.
Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the final during extra time, giving Spain the lead and putting Argentina under pressure to find an equalizer. The goal proved decisive as Spain held on through the remaining minutes to secure the trophy.
Spain’s Defensive Discipline
The victory was another example of Spain’s defensive strength throughout the tournament.
Spain conceded only one goal across their eight matches at the World Cup, while goalkeeper Unai Simón kept seven clean sheets, the highest total by a goalkeeper in a single edition of the competition.
That defensive consistency became particularly important in the final, where Spain protected their narrow advantage after taking the lead.
Argentina Fall Short in Their Title Defence
Argentina entered the final hoping to retain the World Cup after winning the tournament in 2022.
The defending champions had once again reached the biggest match in international football, but they could not find a way past Spain after the game went beyond 90 minutes.
Despite the defeat, Argentina’s run underlined their continued status as one of international football’s strongest teams.
Spain Return to World Cup Glory
The victory gives Spain their second men’s World Cup title, following their previous triumph in 2010.
The achievement also adds another major chapter to Spain’s recent success. The team arrived at the tournament as reigning European champions and finished the competition by lifting the biggest prize in international football.
Spain’s triumph also made them the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup titles.
A Historic Tournament for Spain
Spain’s championship was built on consistency, defensive organisation and the ability to win close matches.
The team scored 14 goals during the tournament and extended their unbeaten run in regulation time to 38 matches.
For Spain, the final victory represents the culmination of another successful period for the national team.
Final Score
Spain 1-0 Argentina after extra time
Goal: Ferran Torres, 106th minute.
