KATHMANDU: Spain claimed the 2026 FIFA World Cup title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Argentina after extra time in Sunday’s final at New York/New Jersey Stadium.
The triumph secured Spain’s second World Cup crown, and their first since 2010, while ending Argentina’s bid to become only the third nation to successfully defend the title. Lionel Messi’s side fell short in their attempt to retain the trophy.
The decisive moment came in the 106th minute when Ferran Torres converted a headed assist from Nico Williams, driving a powerful shot past goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez from just outside the six-yard area.
Spain dominated throughout the match, registering 20 shots before Argentina managed their first attempt.
Despite the defeat, Martínez delivered an outstanding performance, making 11 saves. His best stop came in second-half stoppage time when he dived to deny a Lamine Yamal free kick that appeared destined for the net.
Argentina’s challenge became even more difficult five minutes earlier after Enzo Fernández was sent off following a second yellow card, reducing the defending champions to 10 men.
Even so, Argentina pushed for a late equalizer in extra time. Lionel Messi delivered two dangerous corner kicks, but the opportunities went begging, with Giuliano Simeone sending his stoppage-time effort over the crossbar.
Spain’s previous FIFA Men’s World Cup triumph came in 2010, when it defeated the Netherlands 1-0 after extra time in the final at Soccer City in Johannesburg, South Africa. Andrés Iniesta scored the decisive goal in the 116th minute, securing Spain’s first-ever World Cup title.
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