Spain Claims 2026 World Cup Title with Ferran Torres' Extra-Time Goal Against Argentina

In a tense final at MetLife Stadium, Spain secured their second men’s World Cup crown by edging out defending champions Argentina 1-0. The match was decided in the 105th minute of extra time when substitute Ferran Torres scored the only goal, ensuring victory for La Roja.

Spain’s defense stood firm throughout the 120 minutes, allowing just one shot on target and limiting Argentina's chances to two attempts overall. Lionel Messi, who appeared largely subdued, managed only a single shot late in extra time and had minimal touches in the first half, highlighting Spain's effective containment.

The contest saw a critical moment near the end of regular time when Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card for a harsh foul, reducing Argentina to ten men during stoppage time.

Key Moments and Match Flow

Torres’ decisive goal came after a precise cross from Pedro Porro found Nico Williams, who then assisted Torres to slot the ball past goalkeeper Emi Martinez. After taking the lead, Spain held on against a desperate Argentine attack, denying them an equalizer despite a few close opportunities.

The Spanish youngster Lamine Yamal, though limited in scoring chances, became one of the youngest players ever to win a World Cup. His performance alongside veteran stars underscores a promising future for Spanish soccer as icons like Messi approach retirement.

Match Details

• 5:43 p.m. ET - Ferran Torres scores the winning goal in extra time.
• 5:10 p.m. ET - Enzo Fernandez receives a red card, leaving Argentina with 10 players.
• End of regulation - Score remains 0-0 heading into extra time.
• Throughout the match, Spain dominated possession and maintained a strong defensive line, limiting Argentina’s attempts on goal.

Broadcast Information and Viewing Options

The 2026 World Cup final aired nationally in the United States on Fox for English audiences and Telemundo in Spanish. Live streams were available on fubo and Peacock. International viewers could watch through networks like TSN and RDS in Canada, BBC One in the UK, SBS in Australia, and Sports 18 in India.

Fox's coverage included a four-hour pregame show, and the closing ceremony featured performances by Post Malone and other celebrities. Jennifer Hudson performed the U.S. national anthem before kickoff.

Historical Notes and Player Achievements

This final marked Lionel Messi's third World Cup final appearance, making him one of only two players alongside Brazil's Cafu to reach this milestone. At 39, Messi also became the oldest outfield player to feature in a World Cup final.

Spain's victory ended Argentina's bid for consecutive World Cup titles, joining Italy and Brazil as the only nations to have achieved back-to-back championships.

Goalkeeper Emi Martinez set a new record with 10 saves in the final, surpassing the previous record held by Brazil's Claudio Taffarel from 1994.