Bhubaneswar: Spain are the new FIFA World Cup champions after edging Argentina 1-0 in extra time to end Lionel Messi’s bid for back-to-back titles. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute to hand Luis de la Fuente’s side their second World Cup crown and bring Argentina’s reign as world champions to an end.
The final remained deadlocked after 90 minutes despite Spain dominating possession for long spells. Argentina defended resolutely and kept Spain at bay, but their task became significantly harder when Enzo Fernandez was sent off after receiving his second yellow card, leaving Lionel Scaloni’s men to play the remainder of the contest with 10 players.
Spain finally found the breakthrough in extra time, with Torres making the most of their numerical advantage to settle a tense final and spark celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters.
Ferran Torres emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to break Argentine resistance and secure victory for La Roja. The match was a tense, hard-fought affair, with Spain’s midfield dominance and defensive solidity ultimately proving too much for Lionel Messi’s side.
This triumph marks Spain’s first World Cup win since their memorable 2010 victory in South Africa. The young, talented squad—featuring stars like Lamine Yamal, Rodri, and Torres—delivered a masterclass in possession and pressing football throughout the tournament.
The defeat was especially poignant for Lionel Messi, who left the field in tears after collecting his runners-up medal in what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance.
U.S. President Donald Trump joined FIFA President Gianni Infantino for the medal and trophy presentation, while the leaders of fellow co-hosts Canada and Mexico attended the final. Trump and Infantino were booed during the ceremony.
Beyond the game, one of the evening’s biggest talking points was a Super Bowl-inspired halftime show. Shakira, Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber and Burna Boy took the stage during an extended break curated by Coldplay’s Chris Martin.
