Spain defeat 10-man Argentina to end 16-year World Cup wait

Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup champions once again after edging defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the 2026 final at MetLife Stadium in New York on Sunday, July 19. The victory secured La Roja's second world title, ending a 16-year wait since their historic triumph in South Africa in 2010. After dominating possession for most of the contest, Spain finally broke the deadlock in the 106th minute. Substitute Ferran Torres tapped home from close range after a headed assist from Nico Williams, ending Argentina's reign as world champions. Spain capped off a remarkable tournament by conceding just one goal throughout the competition. Although the narrow scoreline suggested a closely fought contest, Spain controlled virtually every aspect of the final. Argentina struggled to pose an attacking threat, failing to register a shot on target during normal time and creating few clear-cut opportunities even after extra time began. The only reason the Albiceleste remained in the match was goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who produced one of the finest performances of his career. The Aston Villa shot-stopper made a string of outstanding saves to deny Pedri, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, keeping Spain at bay for more than 100 minutes. Captain Lionel Messi was unable to produce another memorable World Cup performance as Spain's disciplined defence successfully contained Argentina's attack. Fernandez red card proves costly Argentina's hopes suffered a major setback deep into stoppage time when midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off after receiving a second yellow card in the third minute of added time for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsí. Reduced to 10 men for the remainder of extra time, Argentina struggled to withstand Spain's relentless pressure. The decisive moment arrived six minutes into extra time when Ferran Torres, who had replaced Mikel Oyarzabal in the second half, calmly slotted past Martínez to spark jubilant celebrations among the Spanish supporters. Spain sweep individual honours Spain's dominance was further reflected in the tournament's individual awards. Midfield general Rodri won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player after inspiring Spain's title-winning campaign. Argentina captain Lionel Messi received the Silver Ball, while France striker Kylian Mbappé claimed the Bronze Ball and finished as the tournament's leading scorer with 10 goals to win the Golden Boot. Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón was awarded the Golden Glove after conceding just one goal throughout the tournament, while teenage defender Pau Cubarsí was named Best Young Player, highlighting Spain's impressive blend of experience and emerging talent. The triumph marks Spain's return to the pinnacle of world football and makes them only the ninth nation to win multiple FIFA World Cup titles, adding the 2026 crown to their historic success in 2010. For Argentina, the defeat brings an end to their reign as world champions after lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022.

World Cup 2026

Spain defeat 10-man Argentina to end 16-year World Cup wait