SPAIN wins FIFA World Cup 2026, beat Argentina 1-0 with goal in extra time

Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title following a grueling 125-minute final against reigning champions Argentina at the New York New Jersey Stadium. Super-sub Ferran Torres broke the intense, deadlocked stalemate in the 106th minute of extra time, turning home a left-footed rebound after Nico Williams' initial header rattled the post. The dramatic victory ended Argentina's global reign and inflicted severe heartbreak on Lionel Messi, whose historic international career suffered another painful setback in the final match.

The high-stakes encounter remained entirely goalless through 90 minutes of regulation time, heavily dominated by Spain's fluid offensive line. Argentina struggled severely to break down the European side, setting an unwanted tournament record by failing to record a single shot on goal until late in the second half. The South American side stayed alive courtesy of a sensational performance from goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who pulled off ten crucial saves, including a phenomenal diving stop against a Lamine Yamal free-kick in injury time.

The match tilted heavily in Spain's favor during injury time when Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez was shown a red card for a dangerous foul on Pau Cubarsi, reducing his team to ten men. Earlier in the match, Argentina suffered defensive disruptions when Lisandro Martinez went off injured, while a heated mid-game scuffle resulted in a yellow card for Leandro Paredes. The high-profile event also marked a historical milestone for FIFA by incorporating a star-studded halftime entertainment show featuring global musical acts BTS, Justin Bieber, and Shakira.