Spain are the new 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after edging defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a tense and dramatic final played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Sunday.
The victory secured Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title, adding to the trophy they won in South Africa in 2010, while ending Argentina’s hopes of successfully defending the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
The two football powerhouses produced a tactical battle throughout the 90 minutes, with Spain dominating possession and creating the better scoring opportunities, but Argentina’s resilient defence, marshalled by goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, kept the score level.
Spain thought they had taken the lead midway through the second half when Nico Williams found the back of the net, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Minutes later, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal forced Martínez into a brilliant save with a curling free-kick, while Williams also saw a powerful header comfortably stopped by the Argentine shot-stopper.
Argentina struggled to create clear-cut chances for much of the match, with Lionel Messi being closely marked by Spain’s disciplined defense. Julián Álvarez came closest during normal time but failed to trouble Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 106th minute of extra time.
Substitute Ferran Torres met Nico Williams’ headed pass before smashing a left-footed shot high into the roof of the net, leaving Martínez with no chance and sending thousands of Spanish supporters into wild celebrations. The goal proved to be the decisive moment of the final.
Argentina attempted a late comeback despite being reduced to ten men after midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off for a second bookable offense late in the match. Messi pushed his team forward in the closing minutes, while Giuliano Simeone blasted one effort over the crossbar as Argentina searched desperately for an equaliser.
Spain nearly doubled their advantage when Ferran Torres found the net again, but the goal was disallowed, ensuring the score remained 1-0 until the final whistle.
When Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić blew for full time, Spanish players and supporters erupted in celebration as they claimed the biggest prize in world football.
The triumph capped a remarkable tournament for coach Luis de la Fuente’s youthful side, who eliminated Portugal, Belgium and France before overcoming reigning champions Argentina in the final.
For Argentina, the defeat marked a heartbreaking end to an impressive title defense. Despite another memorable World Cup campaign led by Lionel Messi, La Albiceleste were unable to find a way past Spain’s organised defense.
Spain’s triumph also completed a historic achievement, making them the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup titles.