Spain claimed its second FIFA World Cup title with a dramatic 1-0 victory over defending champion Argentina after extra time in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium near New York on Sunday. Substitute Ferran Torres emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to end Argentina’s title defense and deny Lionel Messi a second consecutive World Cup triumph.

The final remained scoreless through regulation time as both teams battled intensely, but Argentina’s task became even more difficult after midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off late in regulation for a reckless challenge, reducing the defending champions to 10 men.

Spain capitalized on the numerical advantage in extra time when Torres pounced on a loose ball inside the penalty area and fired a left-footed shot past goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. Despite Martínez producing a series of outstanding saves throughout the match, he could not prevent the decisive strike.

Spain dominated possession and created the majority of scoring opportunities, while its disciplined defense once again proved decisive. The European champions conceded only one goal throughout the tournament, setting a World Cup record for the fewest goals allowed by a title-winning team.

The defeat marked what is expected to be Lionel Messi’s final World Cup appearance. The Argentine captain left the field in tears after falling short of defending the title his nation won in Qatar in 2022.

Rodri, who was named the tournament’s Golden Ball winner, praised Spain’s determination and teamwork, while coach Luis de la Fuente celebrated the achievement as the culmination of years of hard work.

The victory also made Spain the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup titles, following the Spanish women’s triumph in 2023.

Celebrations erupted across Spain, particularly in Madrid, as thousands of fans filled the streets to celebrate another historic moment in the country’s football history.