New York; July 19, 2026: Spain clinched their second FIFA World Cup title after substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time to secure a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the 2026 final.
Torres broke the deadlock in the 106th minute, firing home from close range after Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez had produced a string of crucial saves to keep his side in the contest.
The defeat ended Argentina’s hopes of defending their World Cup crown, while captain Lionel Messi also missed out on surpassing Kylian Mbappé in the race for the tournament’s Golden Boot.
Argentina were reduced to 10 men in the second half after Enzo Fernández was sent off for a second bookable offence. Despite the numerical disadvantage and failing to register a shot during regulation time, Lionel Scaloni’s side held firm to force the match into extra time.
Spain dominated possession and created several opportunities throughout the contest but struggled to beat Martínez until Torres’ late strike settled the final just as the game appeared destined for a penalty shootout.
After the victory, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised his players, calling them an exceptional generation that remained committed to the team’s philosophy. He said their triumph was the reward for years of hard work and described the squad as a united family that had achieved something special for Spanish football.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said the result was painful but praised his players for giving everything throughout the tournament. He urged supporters to value the team’s journey, saying they should accept defeat with dignity while remaining proud of reaching another World Cup final.
