Spain Beat Argentina in Extra Time to Win FIFA World Cup 2026 After 16-Year Wait
Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after defeating defending champions Argentina in an intense extra-time final at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday. A decisive strike from Ferran Torres sealed a 1-0 victory after extra time, ending Spain's 16-year wait for another World Cup title.
The triumph gave La Roja their second FIFA World Cup crown, adding to the title they won in South Africa in 2010. For Argentina, the defeat ended their hopes of successfully defending the trophy they lifted in Qatar four years earlier.
Ferran Torres Delivers the Decisive Moment
After 90 minutes failed to separate the two sides, the match entered extra time with both teams searching for the breakthrough.
Spain finally found it in the 106th minute, when Ferran Torres produced a composed finish after receiving the ball in a dangerous central position. His clinical strike proved to be the difference in a tightly contested final and ultimately secured the biggest prize in international football for Spain.
Despite several late attacks from Argentina, Spain's defence remained composed to protect their slender advantage until the final whistle.
Argentina Reduced to 10 Men
Argentina's task became significantly harder late in normal time after Enzo Fernández was sent off.
The midfielder received a second yellow card in the fourth minute of stoppage time (90+4') following a challenge on Spanish defender Pau Cubarsí, leaving Lionel Scaloni's side to play the entire extra-time period with 10 players.
The numerical disadvantage allowed Spain to dominate possession and create more opportunities during the additional 30 minutes.
Spain Create More Chances
Spain consistently threatened throughout extra time, with substitute Nico Williams making an immediate impact after coming off the bench.
The Athletic Club winger nearly doubled Spain's advantage in the 114th minute, but goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez reacted brilliantly to deny his powerful header.
Midfielder Mikel Merino also played a key role by maintaining Spain's attacking pressure, while Argentina struggled to create clear-cut opportunities despite the presence of Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez.
Emotional End for Lionel Messi
The final also marked what is expected to be Lionel Messi's last FIFA World Cup appearance.
After the final whistle, the Argentine captain remained seated on the pitch as Spain celebrated around him, bringing an emotional conclusion to one of football's greatest World Cup careers.
Although Argentina fell short in the final, Messi once again played a major role throughout the tournament, helping the reigning champions reach another World Cup final.
Spain Complete Historic Double
Spain entered the tournament as UEFA European champions and finished it by lifting football's biggest trophy.
Under Luis de la Fuente, La Roja impressed with their disciplined defence, technical midfield and fluid attack throughout the competition.
They controlled large periods of the final, finishing with more possession, more shots on target and greater attacking intent before Ferran Torres' winner secured the title.
Spain's victory not only secured a second FIFA World Cup title but also completed a memorable campaign that saw the European champions conquer the world once again after a 16-year wait.