Spain wins second World Cup title, defeats Argentina 1-0 in extra time

Spain claimed its second FIFA World Cup title on July 19, 2026, defeating defending champion Argentina 1-0 in extra time at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, securing victory in the 104th and final match of the tournament.

Spain's campaign was marked by defensive excellence, conceding only one goal throughout the entire competition. Argentina, seeking to defend its 2022 title, was unable to overcome Spain's organized play despite reaching the final as the defending world champion. The match drew heightened security and attendance, with United States President Donald Trump in attendance—the only World Cup match he watched in person. The Secret Service took over security for the event, resulting in long queues for supporters entering the 82,500-capacity stadium.

The match took place on a hybrid grass pitch at MetLife Stadium that had been the subject of criticism throughout the tournament. Players including Brazil's Vinícius Júnior and France's Adrien Rabiot complained about the dry conditions and hard surface of the pitch. FIFA's senior field manager Alan Ferguson maintained that the field met functional standards despite visual concerns, noting that temperature improvements during the tournament and additional measures—including grow covers and specialized lighting—had enhanced the surface by the final.

Spain's King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia attended the final alongside the Princess of Asturias and Infanta Sofía. King Felipe VI presented medals to the Spanish team following the victory. Spanish manager Luis de la Fuente and the players dedicated the victory to Spain. The win makes Spain the eighth nation to win multiple World Cup titles, joining Uruguay, Italy, Germany, Brazil, England, Argentina, and France.