World Cup 2026: Torres' extra-time goal seals Spain's victory over Argentina

Spain has won the 2026 World Cup, defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in a tense final that went into extra time. Ferran Torres scored the crucial goal in the second half of extra time, securing Spain's second World Cup trophy and their first since 2010.

The match was a closely contested affair, with both teams struggling to break the deadlock in the first half. Spain dominated possession with 51% compared to Argentina's 45%, but neither side managed a shot on target in the first half, marking a record low for a World Cup final since 1966.

Argentina faced a setback in the second half when midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card, reducing them to ten men. Despite the disadvantage, Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made crucial saves to keep them in the game. Spain's 19-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal also made history, becoming the first player under 20 to reach the finals of both the European Championship and the World Cup.

Lionel Messi, playing in his third World Cup final at the age of 39 years and 25 days, became the oldest non-goalkeeper to feature in the championship match. Despite his efforts, Argentina could not overcome Spain's late goal, ending their dream of consecutive World Cup titles.