Spain beat Argentina in extra time to win FIFA World Cup 2026
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New York: Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after substitute Ferran Torres scored the winner in extra time to secure a 1-0 victory over defending champions Argentina in the final at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
After a goalless 90 minutes, Torres broke the deadlock in the 106th minute, meeting Nico Williams' headed knockdown before firing a powerful left-footed shot past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The victory earned Spain their second World Cup title and their first since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010.
Spain controlled possession for much of the match and created the better chances, but Martinez produced a series of impressive saves to keep Argentina in the contest. Argentina struggled to threaten consistently, with captain Lionel Messi largely kept quiet by Spain's disciplined defence.
The defending champions were dealt a major blow in stoppage time when midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card, leaving Argentina with 10 men for extra time.
Spain continued to press after taking the lead and briefly thought they had doubled their advantage, only for the goal to be disallowed for a foul in the build-up. Luis de la Fuente's side comfortably saw out the remaining minutes to end Argentina's reign as world champions.
The victory completed an unbeaten campaign for Spain, adding a second FIFA World Cup title to their historic triumph in 2010. Argentina, who won the tournament in Qatar, fell just short of successfully defending their crown.
(Inputs from IANS)