Spain won the 2026 World Cup with a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina, as Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute. The triumph was built on Spain's trademark possession and control, with Argentina failing to muster a single shot on goal until the 115th minute. The match also saw Argentina's Enzo Fernández sent off late in regulation time, and ugly scenes after full time as substitute Leandro Paredes received a red card for grabbing Spain's Eric García by the throat.
Spain's Dominance and Argentina's Defensive Approach
From the first whistle, Spain imposed their style, keeping the ball and pressing high. Argentina sat deep, content to defend and hope for counterattacks, but they rarely threatened. Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simón had little to do, with Argentina's only early chance coming when Julián Álvarez miscontrolled a clearance. Spain's midfield, led by Rodri, controlled the tempo, while Lamine Yamal had several eye-catching moments, going close early on.
Argentina's lack of ambition was criticized, as they did not register an attempt on goal until the 115th minute. Their manager Lionel Scaloni introduced Marcos Senesi for Álvarez in the 101st minute, switching to a 5-3-1 formation. Enzo Fernández was booked for dissent in the 83rd minute and then sent off for a foul on Pau Cubarsí, leaving Argentina a man down for the remainder of extra time.
The Winning Goal and Argentina's Late Push
The breakthrough came in the 106th minute. Pedro Porro delivered a deep cross, and substitute Nico Williams headed it back across goal. Ferran Torres, another substitute, smashed a high volley into the net. Torres later had a goal disallowed for offside in the 113th minute. Argentina had a late chance when substitute Guiliano Simeone lashed a half-chance high, but they could not equalize. Spain's defense, which conceded only once in the entire tournament, held firm.
After the final whistle, Argentina players turned their backs on Spain during the trophy presentation, focusing on their own fans. Leandro Paredes was sent off for grabbing Eric García by the throat. Lionel Messi, likely playing his final World Cup game, was in tears. Argentina had not lost a knockout tie since the 2019 Copa América and had won three consecutive tournaments, but they were outplayed in the final.
Tournament Context and Ceremony
The final was held in the United States, with a pre-match ceremony featuring Jennifer Hudson singing the US anthem and Tom Cruise giving a speech. Madonna performed via video from a car driven by Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. Spain's victory marked their second World Cup title, emulating the 2010 generation. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez made 11 saves, but it was not enough to stop Spain's patient build-up.
