Spain Crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup Champions
Spain wins the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Argentina
Spain has been crowned the 2026 FIFA World Cup champion, defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final played at New York New Jersey Stadium in the United States.
The match remained goalless throughout regular time despite Spain dominating possession and creating the better chances. Argentina struggled to break through Spain's organized defense, while Lionel Messi was effectively contained for most of the match.
Spain controlled the game
Spain looked confident from the opening minutes. Lamine Yamal forced an early save from goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, while the European champions repeatedly moved the ball through Argentina's midfield with quick one-touch combinations.
Although Spain controlled possession during the first half, both teams went into the break without scoring.
After halftime, Argentina increased the intensity of its pressing and created a more competitive contest, supported by thousands of passionate fans inside the stadium. However, Spain continued to dominate possession and kept Argentina pinned deep inside its own half for long periods.
Despite several dangerous attacks and numerous corner kicks, Spain was unable to find a breakthrough during the 90 minutes.
Extra time decided the champion
With the score still tied after regulation time, the final moved into extra time.
Argentina's task became even more difficult after Enzo Fernández received a red card, forcing the defending champions to continue with ten players.
Spain finally found the decisive goal in the 106th minute.
Pedro Porro delivered a cross toward the far post, Nico Williams headed the ball back into the penalty area, and Ferran Torres struck a powerful finish into the roof of the net to give Spain a 1-0 lead.
That goal proved to be the winner, securing Spain's second FIFA World Cup title.
Spain's second world title
The victory marks Spain's second FIFA World Cup triumph, coming 16 years after its historic first title in 2010, when Andrés Iniesta scored the winning goal in the final against the Netherlands.
The 2026 success confirms Spain's return to the top of world football after an impressive tournament campaign and ends Argentina's reign as world champion.
Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the final in the 106th minute of extra time, giving Spain a 1-0 victory over Argentina and its second FIFA World Cup title.
Match highlights
- Final score: Spain 1-0 Argentina (after extra time).
- Winning goal: Ferran Torres, 106th minute.
- Venue: New York New Jersey Stadium, United States.
- Argentina finished the match with ten players after Enzo Fernández was sent off.
- Spain won its second FIFA World Cup title after first lifting the trophy in 2010.