EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey — Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, securing the trophy by a one-goal margin and becoming world champions for the second time.
Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute at New York New Jersey Stadium. The second-half substitute reacted quickest to a bouncing ball inside the penalty area and fired a left-footed shot beyond Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.
The match remained goalless throughout the regulation 90 minutes, despite Spain dominating possession and creating significantly more opportunities. Spain registered 20 attempts, including 12 on target, while Argentina managed only two attempts and failed to produce a shot on target. Martínez kept Argentina in contention with a string of saves before Torres finally broke the deadlock.
Argentina Committed More Fouls
The final was an intensely physical contest, with 46 fouls committed altogether. Argentina were responsible for 25 fouls, while Spain committed 21.
Argentina’s 25 fouls reflected their aggressive strategy of disrupting Spain’s passing rhythm and preventing the European side from building attacks. Spain were also involved in several physical challenges as the match became increasingly tense.
Argentina’s disciplinary problems reached a critical point late in regulation time when midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off for a reckless challenge on Spanish defender Pau Cubarsí. The dismissal reduced Argentina to 10 players shortly before the match entered extra time.
Spain’s Dominance Finally Rewarded
Spain controlled approximately 65 percent of possession and completed passes with far greater accuracy. Argentina concentrated largely on defending and became the first team in World Cup final history to complete the regulation 90 minutes without attempting a shot.
Torres’ extra-time strike eventually rewarded Spain’s patience and attacking superiority. After taking the lead, Spain protected the advantage through the remaining minutes, denying Lionel Messi and his teammates a late equalizer.
The victory gave Spain their second men’s World Cup title, following their first triumph in 2010. It also ended Argentina’s attempt to successfully defend the trophy they won in Qatar in 2022.
Match at a Glance
Final score: Spain 1-0 Argentina after extra time
Winning margin: One goal
Goalscorer: Ferran Torres, 106th minute
Fouls committed by Spain: 21
Fouls committed by Argentina: 25
Total fouls: 46
Red card: Enzo Fernández, Argentina
Shots: Spain 20, Argentina 2
Shots on target: Spain 12, Argentina 0
Venue: New York New Jersey Stadium, East Rutherford
Date: July 19, 2026
