Ferran Torres scores decisive goal as Spain defeat defending champions in a dramatic final

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY — Spain have been crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating defending champions Argentina 1–0 in a tense final that was decided in extra time.

The historic final, played at the New York New Jersey Stadium, remained goalless after 90 minutes before Spain finally broke Argentina's resistance in the 106th minute through substitute Ferran Torres.

Torres struck early in the second period of extra time to give Spain the lead, and Luis de la Fuente's side successfully protected their advantage until the final whistle, securing Spain's second FIFA World Cup title after their previous triumph in 2010.


A FINAL THAT REFUSED TO PRODUCE A GOAL

The highly anticipated contest brought together two of the strongest teams in world football. Argentina entered the final as the reigning world champions, while Spain arrived as the European champions and one of the most impressive sides of the tournament.

Despite the quality on both sides, neither team managed to find the breakthrough during normal time. Spain controlled much of the match and created the greater number of opportunities, but Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced a series of important saves to keep his side in the contest.

The match was still level at 0–0 after 90 minutes, sending the final into extra time and increasing the tension inside the packed stadium.


TORRES DELIVERS THE MOMENT OF GLORY

Spain's breakthrough finally arrived in the 106th minute.

A dangerous move involving Spain's attack created the opportunity, with Nico Williams providing the assist for Ferran Torres, who finished from inside the box to send the Spanish supporters into wild celebrations.

The goal transformed the final. Argentina, who had been hoping to defend their title and claim another historic World Cup triumph, were suddenly forced to chase the game while Spain focused on protecting their precious lead.


ARGENTINA'S CHALLENGE MADE MORE DIFFICULT

Argentina's task became even more difficult after midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.

The dismissal left Argentina playing with 10 men and placed additional pressure on the defending champions as they attempted to find an equaliser.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, Argentina continued to fight until the final whistle. However, Spain's defensive organisation held firm, allowing the European champions to complete a famous victory.


SPAIN COMPLETE A REMARKABLE TOURNAMENT

Spain's triumph completes an outstanding campaign. The team showed consistency throughout the tournament and overcame some of the strongest opposition on their way to the final.

They defeated France 2–0 in the semi-final, with goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro, before facing Argentina in the championship match. Spain's campaign was built around possession, technical quality and defensive discipline, qualities that once again proved decisive in the final.

The victory also confirms Spain's return to the summit of world football. Having previously won the World Cup in 2010, the Spanish national team now adds a second global title to its history.


A BITTERSWEET NIGHT FOR ARGENTINA

For Argentina, the defeat ends their attempt to retain the World Cup crown they won in 2022.

The final also carried enormous significance because of the presence of Lionel Messi, who was part of the Argentine side in a major generational clash against Spain's young star Lamine Yamal.

Argentina had reached the final after defeating England 2–1 in the semi-final, while Spain had overcome France. The two teams therefore entered the championship match with impressive tournament records and high expectations from supporters around the world.


SPAIN'S GOLDEN NIGHT

When the final whistle sounded, Spain's players and staff erupted in celebration as the reality of their achievement sank in.

From a goalless battle after 90 minutes to a decisive extra-time strike, the final delivered a dramatic conclusion to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.


Spain 1–0 Argentina

⚽ Ferran Torres — 106th minute

Spain are the 2026 FIFA World Cup champions. 🇪🇸🏆

The victory gives Spain their second World Cup crown and ends Argentina's reign as world champions in one of the most dramatic finals in recent World Cup history.