Newark, New Jersey — In a closely contested final that required extra time, Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 to capture the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Sunday at the East Rutherford, New Jersey stadium. The lone goal arrived in the 106th minute, delivered by substitute Ferran Torres, who came on in the 62nd minute and made an immediate impact.
Spain controlled portions of the match, but Argentina pressed consistently, creating several chances as the clock wound down. The decisive moment came when Torres converted a late, high-stakes opportunity following a buildup in the attacking third. The goal stood as the difference on a day characterized by tight defense and few clear-cut scoring opportunities.
The final marks Spain’s second World Cup title in its history, with the team avenging past near-misses by sealing the victory in extra time. Argentina, aiming to add a third title to its illustrious record, pushed for an equalizer but was unable to breakthrough Spain’s organized back line and disciplined goalkeeper performance.
Both teams entered the match with storied World Cup pedigrees and delivered a tense, tactical contest before a capacity crowd at the venue in New Jersey. The result adds to Spain’s international trophy cabinet while Argentina faces a setback despite reaching another global final.
No additional goals were recorded after Torres’s strike, and Spain’s defense held firm through the final whistle and extra time to secure the championship. The win extends Spain’s World Cup legacy and reinforces the team’s reputation for effective counterattacking and resilience in knockout-stage play.