Spain secured the FIFA World Cup 2026 title after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 following extra time in a thrilling final held in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The victory gave Spain their second World Cup trophy, with the winning goal arriving during the second half of extra time after Argentina had resisted constant pressure for more than 100 minutes.
Luis de la Fuente’s team controlled possession from the beginning and regularly pushed forward in search of an opening goal. However, Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez delivered an exceptional performance, producing several important saves to keep his side level.
Teenage forward Lamine Yamal created Spain’s first major opportunity with a low effort from inside the penalty area. Mikel Oyarzabal and Marc Cucurella also threatened before halftime, but Argentina remained organized defensively and prevented Spain from scoring.
Argentina were forced to make defensive changes because of injuries. Lisandro Martinez was replaced by Nicolas Otamendi before the break, while Facundo Medina later came on for Cristian Romero. Despite those setbacks, Lionel Scaloni’s side continued to frustrate the Spanish attack.
Spain created more chances after halftime. Ferran Torres failed to convert a header from Yamal’s delivery, while attempts from Pau Cubarsi, Pedri and Nico Williams were stopped by Martinez. The Argentine goalkeeper also denied Yamal’s dangerous free-kick near the end of normal time.
Argentina suffered another major blow when Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card during stoppage time, leaving his team with ten players for extra time.
Spain finally broke the deadlock in the 106th minute. Pedro Porro crossed towards the far post, where Nico Williams headed the ball back into the centre. Torres reacted quickly and fired a powerful first-time finish into the roof of the net.
Argentina pushed forward in the closing stages, but Spain defended calmly and protected their narrow lead. The victory completed a dominant tournament campaign and added another historic achievement to Spanish football.
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