TNI Bureau: Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after edging defending champions Argentina 1-0 in a tense final that went into extra time at the MetLife Stadium on Sunday.
Ferran Torres emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to hand Spain their second FIFA World Cup title, 16 years after their maiden triumph in South Africa in 2010.
The victory capped a remarkable campaign for Luis de la Fuente’s side, which dominated possession and created numerous opportunities throughout the final. Spain registered 20 attempts on goal, while Argentina failed to record a single shot during regulation time. The breakthrough finally came in extra time when substitute Ferran Torres pounced on a loose ball inside the penalty area and slotted home the winner. Argentina’s hopes had already suffered a major setback after Enzo Fernández was sent off with a red card.
For Lionel Messi, the defeat marked a heartbreaking end to what is widely expected to be his final FIFA World Cup appearance. The Argentine legend, who had guided his nation to the 2022 title, was unable to inspire another memorable finish as Spain’s disciplined defence kept him largely quiet throughout the contest. Messi was visibly emotional after the final whistle as Argentina fell short of retaining the trophy.
Spain’s triumph reflected their dominance throughout the tournament. The European champions conceded just one goal in eight matches, setting a new record for a World Cup-winning team. They also extended their unbeaten run to 38 matches, underlining their status as the world’s premier football side.
France finished third after defeating England 6-4 in a thrilling third-place playoff.
*FIFA World Cup 2026 Award Winners*
🔹 Golden Ball (Best Player): Rodri (Spain)
🔹Golden Boot (Top Scorer): Kylian Mbappé (France)
🔹 Best Young Player: Pau Cubarsà (Spain)
🔹 Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper): Unai Simón (Spain)
With the World Cup trophy back in Spanish hands after 16 years, the tournament concluded with the emergence of a new global powerhouse, while Messi’s glorious World Cup journey ended in disappointment despite another memorable campaign with Argentina.
