Here is the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-19 23:52:00.
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Spain clinched their second men’s World Cup title by defeating reigning champions Argentina 1-0 in a tense final that extended into extra time. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal after coming on as a substitute in the second half.
Decisive Moments
The Barcelona forward found the net in the 106th minute after Nico Williams headed down Pedro Porro’s cross. Torres, referring to Spain’s population, remarked, “It was a goal scored by 47 million people.”
Argentina suffered a setback when Enzo Fernández received a red card for a harsh challenge on Pau Cubarsí just before the end of regulation time. The dismissal left Argentina with ten men, drastically shifting the momentum in favor of Spain.
The match saw a physical confrontation between players from both sides after the final whistle, resulting in another red card for Argentina’s Leandro Paredes.
Spain’s Dominance
Spain controlled the match, creating numerous scoring opportunities, yet they struggled to convert. Argentina’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez made an impressive 11 saves, setting a record for the most saves in a World Cup final.
Argentina’s first shot on target came late in the game, with Lionel Messi attempting to score in the 117th minute. Messi, who became the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup final, finished the tournament with eight goals, just two shy of Kylian Mbappé’s Golden Boot tally.
Spain’s robust defense allowed only one goal throughout the competition, the fewest for any World Cup-winning team despite playing eight matches. Under coach Luis de la Fuente, who at 65 became the oldest coach to win a World Cup, Spain now boasts an unbeaten streak of 38 matches across all competitions.
This victory also marked Spain as the third consecutive reigning European champions to win the World Cup, joining the ranks of the teams from 2008-10 and 1972-74.
The final was the last match of the largest World Cup ever, featuring 48 teams across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, resulting in a record number of goals scored during the tournament.
The event attracted a plethora of celebrities, including actors like Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise, as well as sports stars from various disciplines. The closing ceremony featured performances by Post Malone, Justin Bieber, and others, making it an unforgettable occasion.
FAQs
Who scored the winning goal for Spain in the final?
Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in the 106th minute.
When was the FIFA World Cup 2026 held?
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has not yet occurred; this article references the tournament held in 2023.
Quick Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-19 23:52:00
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Tags: #Spain #edge #Argentina #extra #time #win #2nd #World #Cup #title
Tags: #Spain #edge #Argentina #extra #time #win #2nd #World #Cup #title
