New Jersey — Spain defeated defending champion Argentina 1-0 in extra time on Sunday to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a substitute goal from Ferran Torres in the 106th minute securing the country's second world title, 16 years after its first triumph in 2010.
The final, played before a crowd at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, remained scoreless through 90 minutes of regulation.
Torres broke the deadlock in extra time, converting a headed knockdown from Nico Williams after a cross from Pedro Porro. Spain dominated possession throughout the match, controlling 65 percent of the ball and registering 12 shots on target from 20 attempts, while Argentina managed only 35 percent possession and failed to record a single shot on target.
Argentina played much of the closing stages a man down after midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card late in regulation.
Defender Leandro Paredes was sent off after the final whistle. Lionel Messi, playing what is widely expected to be his final World Cup, was unable to lead Argentina to a successful title defense following its 2022 win in Qatar.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised his squad's growth and unity after the match. "I am very proud of this generation of footballers who have grown with this philosophy, stayed true to it, made it even better, and set an example as a team and a family," de la Fuente said.
He also credited Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for keeping the match close. "Dibu's brilliant saves prevented us from winning earlier, but this is a World Cup final, and even with ten men late in the game, you have to suffer," he said, according to Antara News.
Spain captain and midfielder Rodri, who was later named winner of the tournament's Golden Ball award as its best player, said the victory reflected years of work under de la Fuente.
"The combination of Luis de la Fuente and the players is something very special. This title is the result of the long process we built together," Rodri said.
