Spain claimed the FIFA World Cup 2026 title after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in an intense final that was settled in extra time. The victory ended Lionel Messi's World Cup title defence and gave Spain their second world crown, capping an unbeaten tournament in which they conceded only one goal in eight matches.
Substitute Ferran Torres proved to be the match-winner, scoring in the 106th minute with a powerful finish that flew past Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. His strike secured Spain's first World Cup triumph since 2010 and only the second in the country's history.
For 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, the victory marked the biggest achievement of his young career. The Barcelona star, who was just three years old when Spain won their first World Cup in South Africa, played an important role throughout the tournament despite scoring only once.
The defeat also marked the end of a memorable World Cup era for Argentina and Lionel Messi, who led his nation to the 2022 World Cup title and Copa América victories in 2021 and 2024.
Having already lifted the UEFA Euro 2024 trophy, Spain now hold both the European and world titles, reviving memories of their golden generation that dominated international football between 2008 and 2012.
Spain's success was built on teamwork rather than individual brilliance. Midfielder Rodri controlled games from the centre of the pitch, Mikel Oyarzabal finished among the tournament's leading scorers with five goals, while goalkeeper Unai Simon won the Golden Glove after a series of outstanding performances.
Torres also entered the history books by becoming only the fifth substitute to score in a FIFA World Cup final and the first since Germany's Mario Götze netted the winner against Argentina in 2014. He also became just the second Barcelona player to score in a World Cup final after Andrés Iniesta's iconic extra-time winner in 2010.
Spain's journey to the title began with a goalless draw against Cape Verde before wins over Saudi Arabia (4-0) and Uruguay (1-0) secured top spot in Group H. They then defeated Austria (3-0), Portugal (1-0), Belgium (2-1) and France (2-0) to book their place in the final.
In the championship match at MetLife Stadium, Spain controlled possession for long periods and created far more chances, recording 12 shots on target compared to Argentina's one. Argentina's task became even harder in extra time when Enzo Fernandez was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, allowing Spain to comfortably see out the victory.
Luis de la Fuente becomes oldest coach to win the FIFA World Cup
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente also made history with the triumph. According to Guinness World Records, he became the oldest manager to win the FIFA World Cup after leading Spain to the 2026 title.
Spain also set a new World Cup record by conceding just one goal throughout the tournament, the fewest ever by a team that went on to lift the trophy.
The World Cup victory adds to Spain's UEFA Euro 2024 success, further cementing De la Fuente's place among the country's most successful managers and signalling the beginning of what could be another dominant era for La Roja.
Also read: FIFA 2026: Messi chases golden boot
Follow us
