Spain Clinches World Cup Title with Extra Time Victory Over Argentina

Singapore, Singapore Jul 20, 2026 ALN: EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey - Ferran Torres' first goal of this year's World Cup was the goal of his life, and it put Spain back atop the football world.

Denying Lionel Messi a second straight title in what he has indicated would be his final World Cup match, Torres came off the bench and scored in the 106th minute, leading Spain to a 1-0 victory over Argentina on Sunday (July 19).

Torres pounced on a bouncing ball in the box and used his left foot to bury a shot just under the crossbar and into the back of the net.

This victory marks Spain's second World Cup title, adding to the one claimed in 2010. With this win, Spain has solidified its position as a powerhouse in international football.

Spain allowed only one goal in eight matches at the tournament, setting a World Cup record for fewest goals allowed by a champion. This title, combined with the World Cup won by Spain's women in 2023, makes Spain the first nation to hold both the men's and women's titles simultaneously.

The score may suggest a close match, but Spain dominated throughout. They took the first 20 shots on goal before Argentina managed its first attempt in the second half of extra time. Spain also took nine of the first ten corner kicks, with Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez making a World Cup final-record 12 saves to keep his team in the game.

Spain is now unbeaten in its last 38 matches, with 29 wins and nine draws, holding the record for the longest unbeaten streak by any European team. Italy previously held the record with 37 matches.

For the last two-plus years, no team has managed to defeat Spain, not even Messi. An Argentina team known for its late-game rallies had no answers this time.

As the match neared its end, Messi took a corner kick that was poorly executed, leading to a missed opportunity for Argentina. Enzo Fernandez was sent off in stoppage time after receiving a second yellow card, leaving Argentina to finish the match with only ten players.

This final match was the culmination of the biggest World Cup ever, featuring 48 teams across the US, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament saw more matches and goals than any previous edition.

The event was attended by numerous celebrities, including actors Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, and Jennifer Connelly, as well as sports stars like Stephen Curry and Serena Williams. Approximately 80,000 fans were present, and an estimated 2 billion viewers watched worldwide.

Spain's victory was celebrated by its players and coaching staff, with coach Luis de la Fuente becoming the oldest coach to lead a team to a World Cup title at 65 years old. The atmosphere was electric as Spain celebrated its triumph while many Argentine players sat in disbelief on the field.

This match not only showcased Spain's footballing prowess but also highlighted the global appeal of the World Cup, uniting fans and celebrities alike in a celebration of the sport.