Spain claimed the 2026 FIFA World Cup title after defeating defending champion Argentina, 1-0, in a dramatic final decided during extra time.
The match remained scoreless through regulation before Ferran Torres delivered the winning goal in the 106th minute, breaking Argentina’s strong defensive stand in the second half of extra time.
The victory gave Spain its second World Cup championship and marked its first title since winning the tournament in 2010.
Spain controlled much of the match, dominating possession and creating more attacking opportunities against Argentina. The Spanish side recorded 12 shots on goal, while Argentina managed only one shot on target throughout the game.
Argentina was also forced to continue the remainder of extra time with 10 players after Enzo Fernández received a red card following two yellow cards.
Despite the defeat, Argentina entered the final as the defending champion after winning the 2022 World Cup. The team had also captured two Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024.
The match was also seen as a possible final World Cup appearance for Lionel Messi, who was 39 years old during the tournament. Messi previously led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup championship and played a key role in the country’s recent international success.
Spain’s victory capped a dominant tournament run and restored the country to the top of international football after securing another World Cup crown.
