Source Aljajeera
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — In a tense, suffocating final at New York New Jersey Stadium, Spain reclaimed the summit of world football on Sunday, overcoming defending champions Argentina 1–0 in extra time to secure their second FIFA World Cup title.
Fourteen years after their iconic 2010 triumph in South Africa, La Roja completed a glorious double, adding world football’s ultimate prize to their UEFA European Championship title.
The Decisive Moment
After 90 scoreless minutes dominated by tactical chess, stubborn defending, and physical duels, the match swung decisively in extra time. Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off in stoppage time at the end of regulation for a second yellow card following a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsí, leaving the holders with 10 men.
Spain’s relentless pressure finally paid off in the 106th minute. Pedro Porro floated a deep cross to the back post, where Nico Williams acrobatically headed the ball back into the danger zone. Substitute Ferran Torres pounced, smashing a half-volley high into the roof of the net past Emiliano Martínez to send Spanish fans into delirium.
“When you have Messi on the other side, you’re always nervous. But at the end of the day, we depended on our football, and we showed it again,” said match-winner Ferran Torres.
Dominance by the Numbers
While the scoreline remained tight, Luis de la Fuente’s side dictated the flow from start to finish. Argentina struggled to penetrate Spain’s defensive line, failing to register their first attempt on goal until late into extra time.
Spain 🇪🇸Argentina 🇦🇷
Goals10
Total Shots202
Possession65%35%
Corner Kicks91
Red Cards01
Heartbreak for Messi as Spain Makes History
For 39-year-old Lionel Messi, appearing in what is widely expected to be his final World Cup match, the night ended in tears. Harried throughout by Spain’s midfield and starved of service, the legendary captain was unable to inspire another miraculous late rescue act for La Albiceleste.
With this victory, Spain extended their international unbeaten run to an astonishing 38 matches and became the first country in history to hold both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup titles simultaneously. Spain captain Rodri, who hoisted the trophy before 80,663 spectators, was also awarded the Golden Ball as player of the tournament.
