Chandigarh, July 20: Spain ended Argentina’s World Cup title defense with a 1-0 extra-time win in the 2026 final, guided by substitute Ferran Torres’ 106th-minute winner. The victory secures La Roja’s second FIFA World Cup trophy while cementing an unbeaten tournament run in which they surrendered a record-low single goal across eight matches.
The victory unites the 2026 World Cup trophy with Spain’s UEFA Euro 2024 title, echoing the nation’s historic era of international dominance.
“We are world champions,” Spain manager Luis de la Fuente declared after the match. “Together we reached this stage.”
Spain asserted authority from the opening whistle, controlling possession and restricting Argentina’s attack throughout regular play. Argentina’s campaign faced additional strain when Enzo Fernandez was sent off in stoppage time following a second caution. The deadlock finally snapped when Pedro Porro sent a cross to Nico Williams, who headed the ball down for Torres to execute a powerful finish past Emiliano Martinez.
The victory adds unique individual milestones to Spain’s historic run. Head coach Luis de la Fuente set a record as the oldest manager to capture the FIFA World Cup title. In addition, Ferran Torres became only the fifth substitute in history to score during a World Cup final.
“We always depended on ourselves,” Ferran Torres stated. “We always come up with our football, and we showed it again.”
For Argentina, the loss marks the conclusion of a successful era led by Lionel Messi, who previously anchored back-to-back Copa América victories alongside the 2022 World Cup trophy.
“They were better, to be honest,” Lionel Messi declared after accepting his runner-up medal. “I feel sad.”
