Spain Edge 10-Man Argentina 1-0 to Win 2026 World Cup in New York
By Victor Idajili
Spain are world champions again after beating Argentina 1-0 in extra time to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.
Ferran Torres scored the winner in the second half of extra time to break Argentine hearts and end their bid to become the first team to defend the World Cup since Brazil in 1962.
Argentina’s task became harder late in normal time when Enzo Fernandez was sent off in stoppage time.
Spain created the first clear chance as Lamine Yamal’s deflected shot was saved by Emiliano Martinez. At the other end, Unai Simon sprinted 30 yards out of his box to make a crucial clearance and deny Lionel Messi.
Spain came out strong after the break. Within two minutes, Alex Baena fired straight at Martinez after Leandro Paredes gave the ball away deep in Argentina’s half.
The European champions kept pressing. Pedri, Dani Olmo and Pau Cubarsi all forced saves, but Martinez was outstanding. The Aston Villa goalkeeper made 10 saves in total, including a last-ditch stop from a Yamal free-kick in added time to take the game to extra time. With that, Martinez became the first goalkeeper to make 10 saves in a World Cup final.
Spain thought they had the opener early in extra time when Nico Williams put the ball in the net, but the goal was ruled out for a foul on Nicolas Otamendi in the build-up. Substitute Mikel Merino also went close with a header that drifted inches wide.
Argentina pushed late through Messi, but Giuliano Simeone fired over in the dying minutes. Spain held firm and sparked wild celebrations among their fans.
The victory gives Spain their second World Cup title* and comes a year after they won Euro 2024. They are now the only European nation to win back-to-back Euros and World Cups twice.
The King of Spain was in the stands to watch his country. Argentina’s President opted to watch from Buenos Aires, maintaining a personal superstition.
US President Donald Trump and his wife were also present, alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
