Spain beat Argentina after extra time to win 2026 FIFA World Cup

Spain claimed the 2026 FIFA World Cup title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Argentina after extra time in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA.

The closely contested final remained goalless throughout the regulation 90 minutes, with both sides creating chances but failing to find the breakthrough. Spain’s disciplined defence successfully contained Argentina’s attacking threats, while the South Americans also stood firm to keep the Europeans at bay.

Argentina’s Lautaro Martinez and Nicolas Otamendi were both booked in the closing stages of the first half as the intensity of the contest increased.

After the restart, Argentina introduced Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina in a bid to gain control of the midfield and defence, while Spain responded by bringing on Pedri and Ferran Torres just after the hour mark.

Both coaches continued to make tactical substitutions as the match wore on, with Argentina introducing Facundo Medina and Giovanni Simeone, while Spain added Nico Williams and Mikel Merino to bolster their attack.

With neither side able to break the deadlock after 90 minutes, the final was forced into extra time.

Spain made further changes by introducing Martin Zubimendi and Eric Garcia, while Argentina responded with Marcos Senesi. Tensions also spilled onto the sidelines, with Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni shown a yellow card for dissent.

The decisive moment came a minute into the second period of extra time when substitute Ferran Torres finished calmly from Nico Williams’ assist to hand Spain the lead.

Argentina mounted sustained pressure in search of an equaliser, but Spain’s organised backline held firm to preserve their narrow advantage until the final whistle.

The victory earned Spain their second FIFA World Cup title and saw them add the world crown to the European Championship, making them holders of football’s two most prestigious international trophies simultaneously.