Spain have been crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a thrilling final at New York New Jersey Stadium.
The decisive moment came in the 106th minute when substitute Ferran Torres found the back of the net, giving Spain their second World Cup title, sixteen years after lifting the trophy for the first time in South Africa in 2010.
Luis de la Fuente’s side controlled possession for much of the match and created the better scoring opportunities, but Argentina’s disciplined defence and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez kept the score level throughout regular time. The deadlock was finally broken during extra time by Torres’ clinical finish.
Argentina, who entered the final as defending champions, struggled to create meaningful attacking chances against Spain’s well-organised defence. Lionel Messi, in what could be his final World Cup appearance, was unable to inspire a comeback as La Albiceleste finished runners-up.
The victory confirms Spain’s return to the summit of international football following their UEFA Euro 2024 triumph. With a talented new generation and a cohesive playing style, La Roja have secured their place among the world’s elite by lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy for the second time in their history.
