Ferran Torres scores dramatic extra-time winner as La Roja claim their second FIFA World Cup crown and end Argentina’s reign as world champions
New Jersey – Spain are the 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 following extra time in a gripping final on Sunday.
Substitute Ferran Torres emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in the second half of extra time to hand La Roja their second FIFA World Cup title, ending a 16-year wait since their historic triumph in South Africa in 2010.
The highly anticipated final remained goalless through regulation time as both teams produced disciplined defensive displays and limited clear scoring opportunities.
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez delivered another outstanding performance, making a series of crucial saves to deny Spain and keep the reigning champions in contention throughout the match.
The turning point came in stoppage time of the second half when Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández was shown a second yellow card and sent off after a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsí, leaving Lionel Scaloni’s side to play the remainder of the contest with 10 men.
Spain took full advantage of their numerical superiority in extra time, controlling possession and patiently searching for the breakthrough.
Their persistence finally paid off when Nico Williams brilliantly set up Ferran Torres, who calmly finished past Martínez to spark jubilant celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters.
Under head coach Luis de la Fuente, Spain completed a remarkable tournament, combining defensive solidity with their trademark possession-based football. La Roja conceded just one goal in seven matches, underlining their dominance on the road to lifting football’s biggest prize.
Argentina, captained by Lionel Messi, mounted a spirited defence of the title they won in 2022. The South Americans overcame Egypt in the knockout stages before battling past England in a dramatic semi-final to reach the final.
However, they were unable to find a way past Spain’s resolute defence, bringing an end to their reign as world champions.
The victory marks Spain’s second FIFA World Cup triumph after their maiden success in 2010 and crowns an outstanding campaign that established them as the best team at the 2026 tournament.
