Spain Beats Argentina 1-0 in Extra Time to Win Second World Cup

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Spain won the World Cup for the second time on Sunday, beating defending champion Argentina 1-0 after extra time at MetLife Stadium on a goal from substitute Ferran Torres.

Torres scored in the 106th minute after Pedro Porro sent a deep cross that fellow substitute Nico Williams headed back across the goal. Torres finished high into the net, sealing a victory that matched the achievement of Spain’s 2010 world champions.

Spain in Control

Spain dominated possession throughout, sticking to the patient, passing style that has defined the national team. Argentina did not record an attempt on goal until the 115th minute, according to The Guardian. Spain’s defense, the foundation of its tournament, conceded just one goal in eight matches.

Argentina was reduced to 10 men late in regulation when midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off. Substitute Giuliano Simeone sent a half-chance over the bar in the closing minutes, but Argentina could not find an equalizer.

No Fairytale for Messi

The defeat denied Argentina back-to-back titles and Lionel Messi a final triumph on the world stage. Argentina had won its previous three major tournaments, two Copa América titles around the 2022 World Cup, and had not lost a knockout match since the 2019 Copa América. Messi was visibly emotional as he looked toward Argentina’s supporters after the match.

The final ended in acrimony. After the whistle, substitute Leandro Paredes was shown a red card for grabbing Spain’s Eric García by the throat. Some Argentina players turned their backs as Spain received the trophy.

Spectacle in New Jersey

The final capped the first 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. A closing ceremony preceded kickoff, with Jennifer Hudson performing the U.S. national anthem, and President Donald Trump was on stage as Spain captain Rodri lifted the trophy. Kickoff was delayed by six minutes.

A New Generation

Spain’s win confirmed the arrival of a new generation following the team that won the 2010 World Cup and the European Championships in 2008 and 2012. The side combines experienced players such as Rodri with younger talents who emerged in recent years.

For the United States, the tournament marked the largest sporting event the country has hosted, with matches played in 11 U.S. cities. The final was staged at MetLife Stadium, home of the NFL’s Giants and Jets.

Spain’s triumph also extended a remarkable run for Spanish soccer at international level, following its 2024 European Championship title. Argentina, meanwhile, faces questions about the future of its national team as Messi’s international career nears its end.