Spain crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after extra-time win over Argentina

Spain were crowned the 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after defeating Argentina 1-0 in a tense final at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.

They nearly took the lead in the fifth minute when Lamine Yamal combined with Dani Olmo, but his effort was blocked.

Argentina quickly responded. Julian Alvarez played in Lionel Messi, but Unai Simon quickly came off his line to clear the danger.

There were no real chances at either end until the 39th minute when Mikel Oyarzabal forced Emiliano Martinez to make a save.

Argentina made a change before the end of the first half, with Nicolas Otamendi replacing Lisandro Martinez.

The defending champions ended the first half without a single shot for the first time since 1966, highlighting Spain’s dominance.

Just after the interval, Alex Baena fired a shot straight at Martinez following some sloppy Argentina passing.

Ferran Torres squandered the first big chance of the second half, heading Yamal’s cross into Martinez’s palms as Spain continued to crank up the pressure.

The Aston Villa goalkeeper was called into action again, keeping out efforts from Pedri and Pau Cubarsi in close succession.

Martinez was in the right place again moments later, dealing comfortably with Aymeric Laporte’s header.

Enzo Fernandez was sent off for a second bookable offence in stoppage time, giving Spain a numerical advantage.

Martinez made another brilliant stop just before full-time, parrying Yamal’s free-kick away, forcing the game into extra time.

The Argentina goalkeeper pulled off another save in the opening stages of the first half of extra time, denying Nico Williams.

Williams fired into an empty net after the ball broke kindly to him, but the goal was ruled out for a foul.

Spain created another big chance, with Williams picking out Merino with a brilliant cross, but he headed wide.

Torres eventually put Spain in front in the second half of extra time, rifling a shot into the roof of the net to score his first-ever goal at the tournament.

Spain ended Argentina’s title defence to lift the World Cup for the second time.