World Cup 2026: Spain Edge Argentina 1-0 in Extra Time

SPAIN · WORLD CUP FINAL

Ferran Torres settled a tense, goalless final early in the second period of extra time to crown Spain champions of the world for the second time.

World Cup 2026 Spain are champions of the world

Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time at MetLife Stadium to win the 2026 World Cup. Ferran Torres scored the only goal of a gripping final.

It is Spain’s second world title and their first since they lifted the trophy in 2010. A new generation has now matched the achievement of that side.

Argentina, the defending champions, fell just short of retaining the crown. Their long tournament ended in heartbreak.

A cagey, goalless 90 minutes

The final was tight and tense throughout normal time. Neither side could find a breakthrough across the opening 90 minutes.

Spain saw plenty of the ball but found Argentina well organised. The champions defended with the discipline that had carried them this far.

Chances were scarce as both teams guarded against a costly mistake. The occasion demanded caution and both sides obliged.

Lamine Yamal probed for openings down the right without a decisive breakthrough. Argentina crowded the space and forced Spain into wider areas.

As the game wore on, the prospect of penalties began to loom. Both benches prepared for a night that might run the full distance.

Ferran Torres decides it

The decisive moment came less than a minute into the second period of extra time. Nico Williams headed the ball back across the box and Ferran Torres finished past Emiliano Martínez.

The goal, in the 106th minute, broke Argentine resistance at last. Spain finally had the opening they had been searching for.

From there Spain defended their lead with composure. Argentina pushed forward but could not find a reply.

The remaining minutes were fraught as Argentina threw bodies forward. Spain held their shape and saw out the biggest night in their recent history.

Heartbreak for Argentina

Argentina had built their run on late drama and remarkable resilience. This time there was no comeback to be found.

Lionel Messi ended the tournament with eight goals to his name. His side could not deliver the fairytale ending they had chased.

Retaining a World Cup remains one of football’s rarest feats. Argentina came within 15 minutes of forcing a shootout.

Their run to the final had featured comebacks against Egypt and England. On the biggest night of all, the magic finally deserted them.

The numbers behind the title

According to FIFA’s official match centre, the final was settled by a single goal after 120 minutes of football. It was the 104th and last match of an expanded tournament.

By The Rio Times’ reading, this was a meeting of the reigning European and South American champions, a pairing the World Cup final had not seen in some 60 years. Spain now hold both the continental and world crowns.

Kylian Mbappé finished as the tournament’s top scorer with 10 goals, claiming a second consecutive Golden Boot. He also became the World Cup’s all-time leading scorer.

A new golden generation

Spain’s success was built on a strikingly young and fearless squad. Their control of matches was a feature of the entire tournament.

They knocked out Portugal, Belgium and France on the way to the final. Beating three heavyweight opponents in succession underlines the quality of this run.

Winning the final without their most fluent performance says much about their maturity. Champions find a way even on difficult nights.

Why it matters

The first 48-team World Cup ends with a worthy and compelling champion. Spain were among the most consistent sides across the whole competition.

For Latin America, Argentina’s defeat closes a tournament that promised a second straight title. The region still leaves with pride after a strong knockout showing.

Five Latin American nations reached the last 16 in an encouraging collective showing. Argentina carried those hopes furthest before falling at the final hurdle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who won the World Cup 2026 final?

Spain won, beating Argentina 1-0 after extra time. Ferran Torres scored the only goal.

When did Ferran Torres score?

He scored in the 106th minute, early in the second period of extra time. Nico Williams provided the assist.

How many World Cups have Spain won?

Two. This is their second title after winning the tournament in 2010.

Who won the Golden Boot?

Kylian Mbappé finished as top scorer with 10 goals. Lionel Messi ended the tournament on eight.

Where was the final played?

The final was held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. It was the last of the tournament’s 104 matches.