Spain claimed their second World Cup title on Sunday, overcoming Argentina 1-0 in a gripping final that was only decided after more than 100 minutes of intense play. The decisive moment arrived in the 106th minute of extra time when Ferran Torres capitalized on a loose ball inside the penalty area, smashing a powerful left-footed volley into the roof of the net to break the deadlock.
Luis de la Fuente’s Spanish side began the match with clear intent, dominating possession and working to exploit gaps in Argentina’s organized defensive structure. The first significant threat occurred just five minutes into the game when Lamine Yamal linked up with Dani Olmo, forcing a sharp close-range save from Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez. Yamal continued to pose a threat shortly after, following a precise pass from Rodri, though the Argentine defense managed to clear the danger.
Argentina, managed by Lionel Scaloni, looked to utilize the pace of Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez on the counterattack. However, they were repeatedly frustrated by Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón, who demonstrated excellent anticipation by rushing off his line to intercept several dangerous attacking sequences. Throughout the first half, Spain dictated the tempo through Rodri’s control in midfield, while Álex Baena, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Marc Cucurella consistently found space along the left flank.
As the first half progressed, the match grew increasingly physical, with players struggling against high temperatures and a dry, uneven pitch. Referee Slavko Vinčić allowed play to continue following a robust challenge by Nicolás Tagliafico on Lamine Yamal, but later issued a yellow card to Lisandro Martínez for a foul on Oyarzabal. Martínez was subsequently forced off the field due to injury and was replaced by Nicolás Otamendi before the interval. Spain finished the half with momentum, as Oyarzabal forced another save from Martínez and Cucurella sent a powerful strike narrowly wide of the post, leaving the match goalless at halftime.
The second half maintained a similar tactical rhythm, with Spain holding the majority of possession while Argentina employed an aggressive, physical press. Leandro Paredes was introduced by Scaloni immediately after the restart, adding intensity to the midfield. Paredes was soon booked for a challenge on Rodri, and the match became increasingly fragmented by fouls and stoppages. Spain continued to press for a breakthrough, with Álex Baena testing his luck from distance, a Lamine Yamal free kick blocked by the wall, and Dani Olmo forcing a fine save from Martínez with a low, awkward effort.
Spain’s offensive pressure was bolstered by set-piece opportunities, with Marc Cucurella, Pedro Porro, and Pau Cubarsí frequently pushing forward. Luis de la Fuente refreshed his lineup by introducing Pedri and Ferran Torres for Fabián Ruiz and Mikel Oyarzabal, later bringing on Nico Williams and Mikel Merino. Scaloni responded by sending on Nahuel Molina, Facundo Medina, and Giuliano Simeone to stabilize his defense and support counterattacks. Despite these efforts, Spain’s defensive trio of Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, and goalkeeper Unai Simón remained resolute.
Late in normal time, Spain intensified their search for a winner. Ferran Torres headed directly at Martínez, while Pedri and Cubarsí also tested the goalkeeper, and Laporte went close with a header from a corner. The match dynamic shifted in stoppage time when Enzo Fernández was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Cubarsí. Although Spain pushed for a late winner against the 10-man Argentine side, the defense held firm until the end of regulation.
The breakthrough finally occurred early in the second period of extra time. Lamine Yamal played the ball to Pedro Porro on the right edge of the box, whose cross was nodded back into the center by Nico Williams under pressure from Nahuel Molina. Ferran Torres met the ball with a clinical volley to secure the win. Argentina attempted a late rally, but they could not find an equalizer, confirming Spain as world champions for the second time and ending Argentina’s reign after an unbeaten tournament run.
