Spain’s King Felipe VI lifts the World Cup trophy as he celebrates winning the World Cup with the players REUTERS/Dylan Martinez

For the second time Spain has won the 2026 World Cup by derailing the defending champion Argentina 1-0 behind the game winning goal from Ferran Torres’ goal in the 106th minute. Spain controlled much of the match but Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez kept his team alive by setting a finals with record with 11 clutch saves in the game.

But could not stop the shot rocketed by Torres after Nico Williams headed a pass his way in extra time. Argentina was forced to play with 10 men for the final 30 minutes after Enzo Fernández was sent off after picking his second yellow card after his challenge sent Spain’s Pau Cubarsí flying head over heels.

Playing a man down Argentina’s chances, were limited full 90 minutes of regulation without generating a single shot against Spain’s dominating possession. Spain limited Lionel Messi finished with 54 touches but just one shot and didn’t allow Argentina a shot on goal until the last 5 minutes in extra when Giuliano Simeone right-footed volley sailed high over the goal.

Argentina was trying to become the third team to repeat as World Cup champion, and join Brazil in 1962 and Italy in 1934. This was likely the final appearance for the 39-year-old Lionel Messi, who legendary records includes 6 World Cup 6 tournaments, a record 34 appearances, 21 goals, and 12 assists. He is the only man to start in three World Cup finals, leading Argentina to the title in 2022 and finishing as runner-up in 2014 and 2026.

Spain will defend their World Cup title as a host country in 2030 along with Portugal and Morocco with Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay also each hosting an opening match to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the inaugural tournament.