Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in extra time to win the World Cup

Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in extra time to win the World Cup

Spain claimed its second World Cup title and first since 2010 with a 1-0 victory over Argentina on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The winning goal arrived in the 106th minute of extra time, courtesy of substitute Ferran Torres, who struck past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to secure the championship for La Roja.

Spain dominated possession and the general flow of the game, completing 762 accurate passes to Argentina's 358. Argentina, the defending champions, struggled to create opportunities and failed to register a single shot on goal during the first 90 minutes or the first half of extra time. In total, Spain recorded 20 attempts while Argentina finished with zero shots on goal.

The final began six minutes late following a pre-match show featuring Robbie Williams and Tom Cruise, as well as logistical delays tied to the arrival of US President Donald Trump. The game’s unusual tempo continued at the break; the halftime interval was extended from 15 to 30 minutes to accommodate a 27-minute and 23-second musical performance. The show featured Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber, Shakira, and others, including a segment where Ronaldo Nazario and Ronaldinho drove a buggy into the stadium.

Tactical Dominance and Key Performances

Spain's approach was characterized by a high defensive line and intense pressing. Midfielder Rodri, the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner, was the central figure of the match, controlling the tempo and intercepting key passes. For his efforts throughout the tournament, Rodri was named the Golden Ball winner as the best player of the 2026 World Cup.

The Spanish defense, anchored by Pau Cubarsi and Aymeric Laporte, conceded only one goal across eight matches in the tournament. Cubarsi, 19, was named the World Cup's Best Young Player. Goalkeeper Unai Simon was named the tournament's best goalkeeper after posting seven shutouts in eight games.

Argentina’s strategy relied on a low block and counter-attacks, but they struggled to implement it. Lionel Messi, 39, had a quiet outing, recording just one touch in the opening 15 minutes. He spent much of the match isolated, with Spain's defense crowding him out. Messi's only notable shot came late in extra time and was blocked before it could test Simon.

Discipline and Turning Points

The match was physical from the start. Referee Slavko Vincic did not issue a yellow card until the 40th minute, when Lisandro Martinez fouled Mikel Oyarzabal. Shortly after, Martinez was forced off the pitch due to injury and replaced by Nicolas Otamendi.

Argentina’s situation grew dire in the final moments of regulation. In the 93rd minute, midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card after a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsi, leaving Argentina with 10 men for the duration of extra time. Fernandez had received his first booking earlier for dissent.

Spain struggled to capitalize on their man advantage initially. In the 95th minute, a goal by Nico Williams was disallowed for a foul. In the 103rd minute, Mikel Merino missed a free header. The deadlock finally broke in the 106th minute when Pedro Porro delivered a deep cross to Nico Williams, whose header found Torres, who lashed the ball past Martinez.

Post-Match Chaos and Legacy

The conclusion of the match was marred by scuffles. After the final whistle, Nahuel Molina appeared to attempt to catch Rodri with his hand, leading to a confrontation involving Eric Garcia. Leandro Paredes was also involved in the melee, pushing Garcia in the throat and grabbing Gavi by his substitute's bib.

During the trophy presentation, Argentina players reportedly kept their backs to the ceremony as Rodri lifted the trophy. Messi was seen in tears after receiving a silver medal.

President Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the trophy to the Spanish squad. According to reports, Infantino nudged Trump away during a photo opportunity to allow the team their moment, as Trump had been greeted with boos upon entering the field.

The 2030 World Cup will be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with opening matches held in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay to mark the 100th anniversary of the tournament.