Ferran Torres climbed off the bench to score the decisive goal in extra time on Sunday night as Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, breaking the hearts of Lionel Messi and his teammates.Spain secured their second World Cup title after a tense final against Argentina, with the match decided deep into extra time.The victory adds another major honour to Spains recent success under head coach Luis De La Fuente, who previously guided the team to European Championship glory in 2024.The triumph places Spain among footballs elite nations, although they remain behind Argentinas three World Cup victories.
Spain are #FIFAWorldCup Champions. pic.twitter.com/mWLw5iis2C
FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 19, 2026Martinez keeps Argentina alive with stunning savesArgentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was outstanding throughout the match, repeatedly denying Spains attacking threats and keeping the score level for long periods.Spain had an early opportunity when Lamine Yamal found space inside the penalty area in the fifth minute, but his effort went straight at Martinez when he appeared to have a better chance to score.The Aston Villa goalkeeper continued his heroics after the break, producing important saves to frustrate Spain.In the 67th minute, Ferran Torres rose highest to meet a dangerous cross, but Martinez comfortably stopped his header. Fourteen minutes later, he again came to Argentinas rescue, making a superb save to deny Aymeric Laportes header towards the left post.Argentina reduced to 10 men before extra-time dramaSpain continued searching for the breakthrough and came close again in stoppage time when Nico Williams produced a curling effort from the edge of the box, only for Martinez to make another smart save.Argentinas hopes became more difficult moments later when Enzo Fernandez was shown a second yellow card in the 90th minute following a reckless challenge, leaving his side with 10 players.Despite being a man down, Argentina continued to resist Spains pressure, with Martinez making another brilliant stop from Lamine Yamals free-kick in the eighth minute of added time.Ferran Torres delivers Spains winning momentSpain thought they had taken the lead shortly after the start of extra time, but the goal was ruled out following a foul in the build-up.However, La Roja finally found the breakthrough in the 106th minute.Nico Williams delivered a header over the defence, allowing Ferran Torres to meet the ball inside the box and fire past Martinez to give Spain a 1-0 lead.
Ferran Torres.#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/xiPy6MJ6Mg
FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 19, 2026Argentina pushed for an equaliser, but Spains defence held firm to eventually be crowned World Cup 2026 Champions.
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