Spain are world champions once again after Ferran Torres scored an extra-time winner to secure a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, ending the defending champions’ reign and completing another remarkable chapter in Spanish football.
Torres struck in the 106th minute at the New York/New Jersey Stadium, calmly finishing Spain’s relentless attacking move after more than 100 minutes of deadlock. The goal handed La Roja their second FIFA World Cup title and sealed a memorable triumph in front of a packed crowd.
The victory also marked another milestone for head coach Luis de la Fuente, who became the oldest manager to win the FIFA World Cup at 65 years old. His side extended its unbeaten run to 38 matches across all competitions, adding the World Cup trophy to the UEFA Euro 2024 title won two years earlier.
Spain dominated possession and dictated the tempo throughout the final, creating numerous chances while limiting Argentina’s attacking opportunities. Despite controlling the game, the European champions had to wait until extra time before finally finding the breakthrough.
Argentina, led by captain Lionel Messi, struggled to impose themselves against Spain’s disciplined defence. The South Americans managed only two attempts throughout the contest and failed to register a shot during regulation time as Spain kept them under constant pressure.
The decisive moment arrived after substitutes Ferran Torres and Nico Williams injected fresh energy into Spain’s attack. Torres made the difference when he clinically converted Spain’s 20th attempt on goal, sparking wild celebrations among Spanish players and supporters.
Speaking after the victory, De la Fuente praised his squad for their consistency and commitment.
“I’m so proud of this generation of footballers who have remained true to our philosophy and continued improving it,” the Spanish coach said.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni congratulated the champions and commended his players for their efforts despite falling short in their bid to retain the trophy they won in Qatar in 2022.
Spain’s triumph concludes the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup with the European giants reclaiming football’s biggest prize and strengthening their status as one of the world’s dominant national teams.
