Spain defeats Argentina 1-0 in extra time to win 2026 World Cup title

Spain captured its second World Cup title on Sunday, 19 July 2026, defeating Argentina 1-0 in a hard-fought final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The victory was secured in the 106th minute of extra time when Ferran Torres converted a cross from Nico Williams, ending a scoreless stalemate that lasted throughout regulation.

The match was defined by Spain’s dominance in possession and Argentina’s defensive resilience, anchored by goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who set a World Cup final record with 10 saves. Spain controlled the offensive tempo, recording 12 shots on goal. Argentina did not record a shot on goal until the closing minutes of the second period of extra time.

Enzo Fernández ejection impacts extra time

The tactical landscape shifted in the 93rd minute of regulation when Argentina’s Enzo Fernández was issued a second yellow card, resulting in a red card and an ejection. The referee showed the card after Fernández collided with Pau Cubarsí near midfield. The dismissal forced Argentina to play with 10 men for the entirety of the 30-minute extra time period.

Physicality was a recurring theme throughout the contest. In the second half, Leandro Paredes received a yellow card for shoving Rodri, an incident that prompted a confrontation between players from both sides. Further disciplinary measures were taken when coach Lionel Scaloni was shown a yellow card for protesting a decision during extra time. Argentina accumulated several cards throughout the match, including an early booking for Lisandro Martínez before his exit due to an injury in the first half.

Spain’s tournament performance and individual honors

Spain’s victory concludes a historic defensive campaign. The team maintained seven clean sheets in eight matches, conceding only one goal throughout the entire tournament. Goalkeeper Unai Simon’s performance earned him the award for the tournament’s best goalkeeper. Midfielder Rodri was awarded the Golden Ball as the 2026 World Cup's best player, while 19-year-old defender Pau Cubarsí was recognized as the tournament's Best Young Player.

The winning goal, scored by Ferran Torres, followed a buildup involving Martin Zubimendi and Nico Williams. Another potential goal by Spain earlier in extra time was disallowed by the officials due to a foul called against Mikel Merino. Despite the late tension and a final scramble by Argentina, Spain maintained its lead until the referee blew the final whistle.

The match at MetLife Stadium drew several high-profile figures, including the leaders of the 2026 co-host nations: Mexico president Claudia Sheinbaum and Canada prime minister Mark Carney. The event also featured the first-ever World Cup final halftime show, featuring a performance by the K-pop group BTS.

For Argentina, the loss marks the end of their bid to become the first team to repeat as champions since 1962. The match was widely considered the final World Cup appearance for 39-year-old Lionel Messi. Spain now joins the ranks of multi-time champions, having previously won the title in 2010. The 2030 World Cup is scheduled to be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay each hosting one opening match to mark the 100th anniversary of the inaugural tournament.