Missed FIFA World Cup Final? Here's everything that happened | Explained
Spain vs Argentina FIFA World Cup 2026 Final: Spain are the new FIFA World Cup champions after defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time in the 2026 final at MetLife Stadium. A late goal from substitute Ferran Torres ended Lionel Messi's dream of finishing his remarkable World Cup career with another title and handed Spain their second World Cup crown.
The victory marked another major achievement for a Spanish side that has established itself among the world's strongest teams. While the match lacked the drama and goals of recent World Cup finals, Spain's patience and discipline eventually made the difference.
The final was expected to be a clash between generations, with Argentina captain Lionel Messi facing Spain's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
Instead of an open contest, the match turned into a physical battle with very few clear scoring opportunities. Argentina adopted a defensive approach, frequently disrupting Spain's rhythm with tactical fouls and delaying tactics.
Spain controlled possession for long periods but struggled to find space against Argentina's disciplined defence.
The contest became even more difficult for Argentina after midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card in the 93rd minute for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsi, forcing the defending champions to play the remainder of extra time with ten men.
Spain continued to push forward in extra time. Nico Williams thought he had given Spain the lead, but his effort was ruled out. Martin Zubimendi also missed a good opportunity before Spain finally found the breakthrough. In the 106th minute, Nico Williams created the opening and Ferran Torres finished from close range to score the only goal of the match.
The goal proved enough to secure Spain's second FIFA World Cup title and ended Argentina's hopes of defending their crown.
At 39, Lionel Messi entered the final hoping to complete another unforgettable chapter in his legendary career. However, Spain's organised defence kept him quiet throughout most of the match. For the first time in his last 12 World Cup appearances, Messi failed to register either a goal or an assist.
Although Argentina searched for a late equaliser, Spain comfortably protected their lead until the final whistle.
Despite the defeat, Messi finished the tournament with eight goals and four assists, once again playing a key role in Argentina's run to the final.
Teenage winger Lamine Yamal once again showcased why he is regarded as one of football's brightest young stars. The 19-year-old constantly troubled Argentina's defence with his pace and creativity, while Nico Williams remained a major attacking threat on the opposite flank.
Although neither player found the scoresheet, both played an important role in Spain's attacking display throughout the tournament.
The final also marked a historic moment off the field. For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, organisers introduced a Super Bowl-style halftime show, extending the interval to 27 minutes.
The performance featured several international music stars, including BTS, Madonna, Shakira and Justin Bieber, making it one of the biggest entertainment spectacles ever staged during a World Cup final.
Security was significantly tightened around MetLife Stadium, with spectators and media passing through extensive screening before entering the venue.
US President Donald Trump attended the final alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Hollywood actor Tom Cruise also appeared during the pre-match ceremony, highlighting the tournament's global appeal.
Although France finished fourth, captain Kylian Mbappe walked away with one of the tournament's biggest individual honours. The French forward won the Golden Boot after scoring 10 goals and providing four assists during the competition. He became the first player to finish as the tournament's top scorer at multiple FIFA World Cups.
Mbappe overtook Messi after scoring twice and adding an assist in France's third-place match against England.
Messi, who also finished with eight goals and four assists, narrowly missed out on winning the Golden Boot for the first time in his career.
With Spain lifting the trophy, attention now turns to the remaining FIFA awards.
Messi remained a leading contender for the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player after guiding Argentina to another World Cup final.
Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simon emerged as one of the favourites for the Golden Glove after conceding only one goal throughout the tournament.
Meanwhile, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is widely expected to be among the strongest candidates for the Best Young Player award following his outstanding performances.
Spain may not have produced the dazzling attacking football that won them widespread praise during Euro 2024, but they showed maturity, discipline and resilience throughout the World Cup.
By defeating defending champions Argentina on football's biggest stage, Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title and further strengthened their position as one of the dominant forces in modern international football.
- With inputs from agencies
