Ferran Torres scored a decisive goal in the 106th minute, leading Spain to a victory over Argentina in the World Cup final. Spain’s dominant play resulted in a 1-0 win, preventing Lionel Messi from securing a second consecutive title.
Torres, coming off the bench, capitalized on a bouncing ball to strike with his left foot, placing the ball just under the crossbar. He described the goal as being scored by the people of Spain. This victory marks Spain’s second World Cup title, with their first win in 2010.
Spain’s performance throughout the tournament was remarkable; they allowed only one goal in eight matches, setting a World Cup record for fewest goals conceded by a champion. The nation achieves a unique feat, holding both the men’s and women’s World Cup titles simultaneously, following the women’s team triumph in 2023.
Messi expressed sadness after the match, acknowledging Spain’s superiority. Despite a close scoreline, Spain controlled the match, taking the first 20 shots on goal, while Argentina managed its first attempt only in the second half of extra time. Emiliano Martinez, Argentina’s goalkeeper, made a record 12 saves to keep his team in contention.
Spain extended its unbeaten run to 38 matches, surpassing Italy’s previous European record of 37. Over the past two years, Spain has remained undefeated, even with Messi on the field. Argentina, known for late-game rallies, failed to find an equalizer this time.
In a late-game moment, Messi’s corner kick provided a chance for Giuliano Simeone, whose shot went over the crossbar. Torres admitted that facing Messi made them nervous, but emphasized that Spain relied on their style of play.
The victory made Luis de la Fuente, at 65, the oldest coach to win the World Cup. Following the final whistle, Argentina faced disappointment, but Spain showed sportsmanship by forming an honor guard as Argentina received their runner-up medals.
Enzo Fernandez’s sending off in stoppage time left Argentina with 10 players due to a second yellow card issued for a reckless challenge. This World Cup, hosted across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, featured more matches and goals than any previous edition.
Spain adopted a strategy of ball control and executed it flawlessly. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged the effort of his team and Spain’s superior performance.
Spain entered the tournament as one of the favorites and fulfilled their expectations by dethroning the defending champions. For Messi, nearing the end of his international career at 39, the match was bittersweet, as he reflected on his illustrious journey with Argentina.
Throughout Messi’s era, Argentina celebrated numerous achievements, including the 2022 World Cup, an Olympic gold medal in 2008, and two Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024.
The World Cup spectacle extended beyond soccer, with a halftime show featuring performances by BTS and Shakira. Celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, and Serena Williams attended the event, adding to the grandeur.
Spain’s victory prevented Argentina from becoming the first nation to win back-to-back men’s World Cups since Brazil achieved the feat in 1958 and 1962. Spain’s coach de la Fuente celebrated, acknowledging his players’ commitment and success.
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