Argentina and Spain enter extra time in scoreless World Cup final

Spain secured its second FIFA World Cup title with a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Sunday, July 19, 2026. The decisive goal came in the 106th minute, when substitute Ferran Torres scored after a sequence involving Nico Williams’ header and Pedro Porro’s cross, according to multiple reports. The match, which ended 0-0 after 90 minutes, saw Argentina reduced to 10 men following Enzo Fernández’s second yellow card in the 93rd minute, a development that proved pivotal.

The contest was marked by Spain’s dominant possession and tactical discipline, with the team taking 20 shots compared to Argentina’s two, according to sources. However, Channel News Asia noted that Argentina managed zero shots on target across 120 minutes, a stark contrast to the original article’s mention of two shots on goal. Emiliano Martínez, Argentina’s goalkeeper, made 11 saves, though some accounts suggest he recorded 10, highlighting discrepancies in reporting.

A controversial moment arose in extra time when Nico Williams’ goal was disallowed for an offside call, as reported by Fox News. The decision sparked debate, with some arguing it negated a clear opportunity for Spain. Despite this, Spain persisted and broke through when Torres, who had entered the match in the second half, lashed a half-volley past Martínez. The goal capped a relentless performance by Spain, which conceded just one goal across the entire tournament, a record highlighted by goalkeeper Unai Simón, who earned the Golden Glove award.

Argentina’s struggles were compounded by a late red card to midfielder Enzo Fernández, who was shown a second yellow in the 93rd minute for a challenge on Spain’s Pau Cubarsi. This incident added to the controversy surrounding Argentina’s physical approach, which had been a recurring theme throughout the tournament. The match also saw a halftime show featuring artists like Madonna, Shakira, and Justin Bieber, a first for a World Cup final, though some critics deemed it a distraction from the on-field action.

Spain’s victory solidified its legacy as the first nation to win both the European Championship and World Cup in consecutive tournaments. The team’s midfield dominance, led by Golden Ball winner Rodri, and the tactical acumen of coach Luis de la Fuente, 65, proved decisive. De la Fuente became the oldest manager to win the World Cup, celebrating a triumph that underscored Spain’s resilience under pressure.

Lionel Messi, 39, was denied a second World Cup title, ending his career with eight goals and four assists in the tournament. The Argentine captain, who had led his team to victory in 2022, was reduced to irrelevance as Spain controlled the match from the outset. Argentina’s defensive efforts were further undermined by a lack of offensive opportunities, with sources noting their failure to generate meaningful chances despite possession-based tactics.

The final, which drew 80,663 spectators, included high-profile attendees such as U.S. President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Trump’s presence drew mixed reactions, with some fans booing him during the trophy presentation. Spain’s players later formed an honor guard for Argentina’s squad, a gesture of sportsmanship amid the bitter defeat.

Spain’s victory set the stage for the 2030 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. Argentina’s defeat marked the end of an era, as Messi reflected on a World Cup campaign that fell short of its ambitions. For Spain, the triumph extended its legacy as a footballing powerhouse, with Rodri’s leadership and Torres’ decisive strike cementing their place in history.