Spain have won the FIFA World Cup 2026, beating Argentina 1-0 in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday. Ferran Torres’ lone goal, which came in the 106th minute (extra time), made the difference.
La Roja’s victory ended defending champions Argentina’s incredible run, who had not lost a game since their campaign opener of the 2022 World Cup. This is perhaps also the culmination of Lionel Messi’s international career, as it is unclear whether the 39-year-old will continue to represent his country. Messi finished the tournament with 8 goals and 4 assists; he had a role to play in almost every goal that Argentina scored in this World Cup.
As the referee blew the final whistle, there was elation in the Spanish camp, whereas Argentine players were left dejected. The camera panned to Messi, who did not showcase any facial expression at first but was later seen sitting on the ground, probably absorbing and sinking the loss.
Had Argentina won the game, Messi would have become the first-ever captain to take his team to back-to-back World Cup victories. However, it wasn’t to be. Nevertheless, he still made a plethora of records and won’t affect his legacy. If this were Messi’s last World Cup appearance, he ended his stint at the grandest stage with 21 goals and 11 assists. He has the most goals + assists in the history of the competition.
Spain dominated Argentina throughout the match. But it was still 50-50 until the 93rd minute when Enzo Fernandes picked up a second yellow and a red card for a rough challenge on Pau Cubarsi. Spain’s dominance ramped up as Argentina were a man down, and eventually they found the winner. This is Spain’s second World Cup win; their maiden title victory came in 2010.