Ferran Torres’ decisive goal secures Spain’s second World Cup title in a dramatic final
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY | July 20, 2026
Spain lifted the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time in a tense final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, ending a fiercely contested match that remained scoreless throughout regular time.
The victory gives Spain its second FIFA World Cup title, adding to the nation’s historic triumph in 2010. It also ends Argentina’s bid to retain the championship they won in Qatar in 2022.
Extra time decides the championship
Both teams created chances during the first 90 minutes but failed to find a breakthrough. Argentina’s task became even more difficult after midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off late in regulation following a second yellow card, forcing the South American side to play extra time with ten men.
Spain capitalized on the numerical advantage in extra time when Ferran Torres finished a well-worked attacking move, scoring the only goal of the match and sending Spanish supporters into celebration.
Emotional farewell for Lionel Messi?
The final could represent Lionel Messi’s last appearance at a FIFA World Cup. The 39-year-old captain was unable to inspire another title despite leading Argentina to another final, and emotional scenes followed the final whistle as teammates and supporters applauded his remarkable international career.
Spain’s new generation delivers
Spain’s success reflects the emergence of a new generation of talent under head coach Luis de la Fuente. The team combined disciplined defending with patient possession throughout the tournament before completing its title-winning campaign with another composed performance on football’s biggest stage.
A memorable World Cup concludes
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, concluded with a historic final witnessed by a global audience. The tournament featured 48 teams for the first time and ended with Spain once again standing at the top of world football.
