New York: Spain were crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time in a gripping final at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute to hand Spain their second World Cup title, 16 years after their maiden triumph in 2010.
The final remained goalless after 90 minutes before substitute Torres converted from close range following sustained Spanish pressure. Argentina’s task became tougher after midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off for a second yellow card early in extra time, forcing Lionel Scaloni’s side to play with 10 men.
Spain dominated possession and dictated the tempo throughout the contest, while Argentina struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined Spanish defence. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez produced several crucial saves to keep Argentina in the match before Torres finally broke the deadlock.
The defeat ended Argentina’s hopes of becoming the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup title. It also marked a heartbreaking end to Lionel Messi’s bid for a second World Cup crown.
For Spain, the victory capped a remarkable run, adding the World Cup to their recent European Championship success and making them the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup titles.
