Spain have been crowned FIFA World Cup champions for the second time after Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time to seal a 1-0 victory over 10-man Argentina in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The triumph earned Spain their first World Cup title since 2010 and ended Argentina’s hopes of retaining the trophy.
The final remained deadlocked after 90 minutes, with Spain dominating possession and creating the better chances but failing to break down Argentina’s resilient defence.
Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo both tested goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who kept Argentina in the contest with a series of important saves, while Lionel Messi’s side struggled to create meaningful attacking opportunities throughout the opening half.
Spain continued to control proceedings after the break, introducing Pedri, Ferran Torres, Mikel Merino and Nico Williams in search of a breakthrough.
Argentina, meanwhile, were forced into changes due to injuries, including the first-half withdrawal of defender Lisandro Martínez.
The match took a decisive turn late in regulation time when midfielder Enzo Fernández was shown a second yellow card for a foul on Pau Cubarsí, reducing Argentina to 10 men.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Argentina held on to force the contest into extra time.
Spain eventually found the winner two minutes into the second half of extra time when substitute Ferran Torres converted from close range after sustained pressure.
Argentina were unable to mount a comeback, with Messi largely isolated in attack as Spain comfortably saw out the closing stages.
The victory gives Spain a second World Cup crown, adding to their historic triumph in South Africa in 2010, while denying Argentina a chance to become only the third nation to successfully defend the title after Italy and Brazil.
The defeat is also expected to mark the end of Lionel Messi’s World Cup career, with the 39-year-old making what is widely believed to be his final appearance at the tournament.
Spain capped an impressive campaign with the title, combining defensive solidity with attacking dominance, while teenage star Lamine Yamal further strengthened his reputation as one of world football’s brightest talents despite not finding the scoresheet in the final.
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