Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, securing their second World Cup title after their first triumph in 2010.
The match remained goalless for 90 minutes despite Spain dominating possession and creating numerous chances. Argentina relied on a disciplined defensive approach, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez producing several crucial saves to keep his team in the contest.
The decisive moment came in the 106th minute when substitute Ferran Torres finished from close range after a cross from Pedro Porro was headed into his path by Nico Williams. The goal proved enough to separate the two sides.
Argentina’s hopes suffered a major blow just before extra time when Enzo Fernández was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, forcing the defending champions to play with 10 men. Lionel Messi, likely making his final World Cup appearance, was unable to inspire a comeback as Spain comfortably saw out the match.
Spain completed an unbeaten tournament and became only the fourth European nation to win multiple men’s FIFA World Cups. Under coach Luis de la Fuente, Spain added the World Cup trophy to their recent UEFA Euro triumph, marking one of the most successful eras in Spanish football.
The celebrations were briefly overshadowed by post match clashes involving players from both teams. FIFA has reportedly opened a disciplinary investigation into the incidents that occurred after the final whistle.
