Spain claimed their second World Cup title on Sunday, defeating Argentina 1-0 in a tense final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The only goal came in the 106th minute from Ferran Torres, who volleyed home from close range after a cross from Pedro Porro and a clever header from Nico Williams.
Luis de la Fuente's side controlled much of the match, dictating tempo through Rodri in midfield and creating chances via Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Mikel Oyarzabal. Argentina, under Lionel Scaloni, relied on counterattacks through Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez but were repeatedly denied by Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón.
The first half saw Spain dominate possession, with Yamal forcing an early save from Emiliano Martínez and Cucurella sending a shot just wide. Argentina's best chances came from set pieces and isolated runs, but the score remained 0-0 at halftime.
Second Half Drama and Red Card
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Spain pressing for a breakthrough. Álex Baena, Yamal, and Olmo all tested Martínez, while Argentina's physical approach led to several bookings. The match turned in stoppage time when Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsí, reducing Argentina to 10 men.
Despite the numerical advantage, Spain could not find a winner in normal time, with Martínez making crucial saves from Torres, Pedri, and Aymeric Laporte. The game went to extra time, where both teams struggled to create clear chances until Torres' decisive strike.
Argentina pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages but could not break through Spain's defense, marshalled by Cubarsí and Laporte. The victory ends Argentina's reign as world champions and marks Spain's second title, following their 2010 triumph in South Africa.
The final was preceded by a half-time show featuring Shakira, which extended the break to 30 minutes. The match also drew attention for a meeting between Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and US President Donald Trump, who had been at odds in recent months. For more on these side stories, see Shakira Headlines First World Cup Final Half-Time Show, Extending Break to 30 Minutes and Sánchez and Trump Meet at World Cup Final After Months of Tension.
Spain's victory caps a remarkable tournament for de la Fuente's team, who have been praised for their cohesive play and tactical discipline. Rodri, the midfield anchor, credited the strong bond between coach and players for their success, as noted in Rodri Credits Coach-Player Bond for Spain's World Cup Final Run.
