Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute as Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The victory denies Lionel Messi a second consecutive title in what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance.
Spain dominated the match, taking the first 20 shots on goal and allowing Argentina only one attempt during extra time. Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made a World Cup final-record 12 saves to keep the match close.
"It was a goal scored by 47 million people," Torres said, referring to Spain's population.
The win gives Spain its second World Cup title, adding to its 2010 championship. Combined with Spain's 2023 Women's World Cup victory, the European nation becomes the first to hold both men's and women's titles simultaneously.
Spain's victory ends Argentina's reign as champions and establishes a new European record: an unbeaten streak of 38 matches. This surpasses Italy's previous record of 37 matches.
Coach Luis de la Fuente, at 65, becomes the oldest coach to win the World Cup. The tournament featured 48 teams competing across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Argentina was forced to play with 10 men after Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card late in the match.