Spain are the 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after edging defending champions Argentina 1-0 in a tense final that was decided in extra time.
Played at the New York New Jersey Stadium, the showpiece event remained deadlocked after 90 minutes before Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, handing Spain their second FIFA World Cup title.
The final was a closely contested affair, with both sides creating limited clear-cut chances during regulation time. Argentina’s task became even more difficult after midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off in stoppage time, leaving the defending champions to play extra time with 10 men.
Spain’s disciplined performance capped off an impressive tournament in the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup, which was co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The victory also saw Spain add another major international trophy to its growing collection after recent success at the UEFA European Championship.
For Argentina, the defeat marked a disappointing end to their title defence and what is expected to be Lionel Messi’s final FIFA World Cup appearance. Despite falling short in the final, the South Americans once again showcased the resilience that carried them deep into the tournament.
The 2026 tournament delivered historic moments on and off the pitch, with record attendances, the expanded 48-team format and unforgettable performances reinforcing the FIFA World Cup’s status as football’s biggest global spectacle.
Main Image: Belfast Telegraph
