Final of the Football World Cup: 'Finally redeemed': Spain world champion after victory over Messi

Spain are the 2026 FIFA World Cup champions, securing their second title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over defending champions Argentina in extra time. Joker Ferran Torres emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to end Lionel Messi's quest for a second World Cup trophy.

“

I think that through this goal we were finally redeemed.

Lionel Messi stood dejectedly on the pitch as the Spanish team celebrated their triumph. While young stars like Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal reveled in their victory, Messi and Argentina's dream of retaining the title was shattered. The final, played in front of a crowd of 80,663 including notable figures like US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, saw Spain dominate possession and control for much of the match.

Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente, the oldest to win the World Cup at 65, expressed immense pride in his team. "I am proud, proud of this team and of this generation that has prevailed with this playing idea," he stated. This victory marks Spain's second World Cup title, their first since winning in South Africa in 2010. For Messi, who had been instrumental in Argentina's journey to the final with eight goals and four assists in the tournament, this was a missed opportunity for a second World Cup triumph after their 2022 win.

“

Against Messi you are always nervous, but we always believed in ourselves.

Argentina's midfield player Enzo Fernández was sent off in second-half stoppage time after receiving a second yellow card for dissent. The match itself was described as a tense affair in the first half, with Spain showing a clear improvement in the second. Argentina, aiming to become the third team to successfully defend their World Cup title, ultimately fell short against a dominant Spanish side.

“

I am proud, proud of this team and of this generation that has prevailed with this playing idea.