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Spain national football team are world champions once again after defeating defending champions Argentina national football team 1-0 after extra time in a thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026™ final.
Played before a crowd of more than 80,000 spectators at MetLife Stadium, the final delivered a tactical masterclass before substitute Ferran Torres emerged as Spain’s unlikely hero.
Ferran Torres Delivers the Decisive Moment
After a fiercely contested 90 minutes ended without a goal, both teams continued to battle deep into extra time.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 104th minute when Torres burst into space and calmly finished a superb solo move to give Spain the lead.
The goal proved decisive as La Roja defended brilliantly during the closing stages to secure football’s biggest prize.
Emiliano Martínez Keeps Argentina Alive
Argentina were largely kept in the contest thanks to an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.
The World Cup-winning goalkeeper produced an incredible 11 saves throughout the match, repeatedly denying Spain from taking the lead during normal time.
Despite his heroic display, Argentina were unable to find an equaliser against Spain’s disciplined defence.
Frustration Ends Argentina’s Night
The closing moments reflected Argentina’s disappointment as emotions boiled over after the final whistle.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a red card following the conclusion of the match, bringing a frustrating end to Argentina’s title defence.
Captain Lionel Messi and his teammates were left heartbroken after falling just short of consecutive World Cup triumphs.
Spain Complete Historic Achievement
The victory extends Spain’s unbeaten run in regulation time to 38 international matches, matching one of football’s greatest records.
It also marks a remarkable milestone as Spain becomes the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup titles in the tournament scenario provided.
The triumph crowns another golden chapter in Spanish football history.
Key Highlights
- Spain defeat Argentina 1-0 after extra time.
- Ferran Torres scores the winning goal in the 104th minute.
- Emiliano Martínez makes 11 saves despite the defeat.
- Leandro Paredes receives a post-match red card.
- Spain become FIFA World Cup 2026™ champions.
- La Roja extend their unbeaten run in regulation time to 38 matches.
Final Takeaway
Spain’s disciplined performance, tactical patience and Ferran Torres’ extra-time brilliance proved enough to dethrone defending champions Argentina. The victory secures another World Cup crown for La Roja and cements their place among the greatest international teams of the modern era.
