Spain beat defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring the 105th-minute winner in New Jersey. Messi left in tears after his final World Cup.
Spain Break Argentina Hearts to Lift 2026 World Cup
One goal, deep into extra time, and 16 years of waiting ended. Ferran Torres' 105th-minute strike gave Spain a 1-0 win over Argentina — and sent Lionel Messi into a tearful farewell.
Spain are world champions again. In front of more than 70,000 fans in New Jersey, La Roja beat defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup — their second title, and first since 2010.
The Moment That Decided It
After 104 minutes of suffocating, cagey football, Ferran Torres struck in the 105th. Spain's relentless pressing had slowly squeezed the life out of Argentina's attack, and when the chance came, Torres buried it.
Messi's Last Dance
For Lionel Messi, it was a painful ending. Shackled all night by Spain's defence, he left the field in tears after collecting his runners-up medal in what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance.
A Final of Firsts
The match also delivered the World Cup's first-ever halftime show, headlined by Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, BTS and the Muppets — a very American twist on football's biggest night.
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Support Our WorkWhat This Win Means
Spain's golden generation 2.0 — built around young stars like Lamine Yamal — has now delivered on its promise. For Argentina, the era that brought the 2022 title ends with a silver medal and a legend's goodbye. Full match report at FIFA.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the result of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final?
Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking their second title and first since 2010.
How did Spain win the 2026 World Cup?
Spain secured their victory in extra time with a goal from Ferran Torres in the 105th minute, after a game characterized by their relentless pressing against Argentina.
Can you describe Lionel Messi's performance in the 2026 World Cup final?
Lionel Messi was shackled all night by Spain's defense and left the field in tears after collecting his runners-up medal in what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance.
What unique event occurred during the 2026 World Cup final?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup final featured the tournament's first-ever halftime show, headlined by Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, BTS, and the Muppets.
Atomni Editorial Desk
Editorial Desk
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