Muhammad Aman Ullah | July 20, 2026
Web Desk: Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time in a thrilling final held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States.
Both teams displayed attacking football from the opening whistle, but neither side was able to find the breakthrough during the regulation 90 minutes. Strong defensive performances and outstanding goalkeeping forced the match into an additional 30 minutes of extra time.
The decisive moment came in the second half of extra time when Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the match, giving Spain a historic victory and their second FIFA World Cup title.
Following the final whistle, U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the World Cup trophy to the Spanish team. Spain’s players celebrated their memorable triumph, while Argentina’s squad received the runners-up medals. Captain Lionel Messi was visibly emotional during the medal ceremony.
Spain also dominated the tournament’s individual awards. Young defender Pau Cubarsí was named the Best Young Player of the tournament, captain Rodri (Rodrigo Hernández) received the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, and goalkeeper Unai Simón won the Golden Glove for his outstanding performances.
The victory marks Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2010. It also marks Spain’s first appearance in a World Cup final since their triumph in South Africa.
With this achievement, Spain made football history by becoming the first nation to simultaneously hold both the FIFA Men’s and Women’s World Cup titles, following the Spanish women’s national team’s victory at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Argentina, meanwhile, ended the tournament with an unwanted record. According to match statistics, Lionel Messi’s side failed to register a single shot on target during the regulation 90 minutes, making them the first team in FIFA World Cup final history to do so.
Match statistics highlighted Spain’s dominance, with 15 total shots, including nine on target, while Argentina struggled to break through Spain’s disciplined defense. Spain’s tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and Ferran Torres’ decisive strike ultimately secured one of the most memorable victories in the country’s football history.
