The essentials
Spain defeats Argentina 1-0 in World Cup final, with Ferran Torres scoring in extra time.
Spain won the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time, delivering the championship victory for the Spanish team.
Spain maintained a 38-game unbeaten streak and conceded only one goal across the entire seven-match tournament, establishing one of the most dominant defensive performances in World Cup history. Lamine Yamal, age 19, became the fourth-youngest World Cup winner, emerging as a breakout star throughout the competition. Rodri was named the tournament's outstanding player, anchoring Spain's midfield as the team's captain.
Argentina's Enzo Fernández received a red card, forcing Argentina to navigate the concluding stages with numerical disadvantage. Lionel Messi cried after the final loss, marking a likely conclusion to his World Cup career. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni left the press conference in tears following the defeat.
The final was watched by 15.6 million viewers in Spain, reflecting the tournament's cultural significance. President Trump was booed during the trophy ceremony as he participated in presenting the championship to the Spanish team.
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Torres goal secures Spain's dominant World Cup victory
Ferran Torres scored the deciding goal in extra time, delivering Spain's first World Cup championship. Spain's superior possession and shot count controlled the entire match. Argentina's Enzo Fernández received a red card, reducing Argentina to ten players. Spain's defensive dominance—conceding just one goal across seven matches—proved decisive in the final.
Spain caps unbeaten run with World Cup triumph
Spain's 38-game unbeaten streak reaches its apex with World Cup glory. Spain's youngest roster defeated Argentina's oldest starting lineup in a World Cup final, marking a generational transition. Lamine Yamal, age 19, emerges as a breakout winner, while Rodri's tournament-leading performance anchors Spain's midfield mastery throughout the competition.