The 2026 FIFA World Cup ended with Spain lifting the trophy after defeating defending champions Argentina 1–0 in extra time on July 19.

Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, giving Spain their second World Cup title. The tournament, hosted across Canada, Mexico and the United States, was the first edition to feature 48 teams and attracted more than 6.8 million spectators to stadiums across the 16 host cities.


Spain’s moment of glory

Spain emerged as the tournament's standout team.

After defeating France 2–0 in the semi-final, La Roja faced Argentina in a tense final. Spain controlled much of the match before Torres eventually found the breakthrough in extra time.

The victory marked Spain's second World Cup triumph and capped an impressive tournament under coach Luis de la Fuente.


Argentina’s brave title defence

Argentina entered the tournament as defending champions and reached the final once again.

Led by Lionel Messi, the team produced several memorable performances during their run. They defeated England 2–1 in the semi-final before ultimately falling to Spain in the final.

For Messi, the tournament added another historic chapter to an extraordinary international career. He became only the second player to appear in three World Cup finals after Brazil's Cafu.


The rise of a new generation

The tournament also highlighted the continued rise of young football stars.

Spain's Lamine Yamal attracted significant attention, while teenage defender Pau Cubarsí also impressed during Spain's successful campaign.

Their performances demonstrated that the future of international football is already arriving on the biggest stage.


A tournament of unforgettable stories

The 2026 World Cup produced dramatic knockout matches, penalty shootouts, late goals and emotional moments.

Morocco reached the quarter-finals, while Norway and Belgium also produced impressive campaigns. France and England battled for third place, with France winning 6–4 in a dramatic match.

But the final story belonged to Spain.


Conclusion

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be remembered for Spain's return to the top of world football, Argentina's determined title defence and the emergence of a new generation of stars.


After 39 days of competition, the tournament ended with one defining image: Spain celebrating a second World Cup title after defeating Argentina 1–0 in extra time.

Spain are world champions once again.