World Cup final: Argentina registers zero shots in 90 minutes against Spain

The 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina concluded regulation time with a 0-0 scoreline, forcing the championship match into extra time. Argentina's offense was notably absent, as the team failed to register a single shot during the entire 90-minute period, an unprecedented occurrence in World Cup final history.

Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi in his third World Cup final appearance at 39 years and 25 days old, became the oldest non-goalkeeper to play in a final. Spain, appearing in their first final since 2010, featured 19-year-old phenom Lamine Yamal, who set a record as the first player under 20 to reach both the European Championship and World Cup finals.

Throughout the first half, Spain held a slight possession advantage (51% to 45%) and managed three shots, two on target. Argentina, however, remained without a shot. The combined total of three shots in the first half was the lowest for a World Cup final since 1966. The second half saw increased intensity, including a brief confrontation that was quickly diffused by the referee. Despite Spain's efforts and substitutions, Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made crucial saves.

In stoppage time, Argentina's Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card for a reckless foul, reducing his team to 10 men. Spain's Lamine Yamal took the resulting free-kick, but Martinez again denied the attempt, sending the match into extra time.