Spain beats Argentina to win 2026 FIFA World Cup behind Ferran Torres' extra-time goal

For the second time in FIFA World Cup history, Spain can call themselves champions.

It was Ferran Torres, who subbed into the match in the second half, who finally got the ball past Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez in extra time for the 1-0 victory at New York/New Jersey Stadium on Sunday night.

This was Spain's second-ever trip to the World Cup Final, but just like they did in 2010, they got the job done.

Meanwhile, if this was Lionel Messi's final match for Argentina, it ended in heartbreak.

As expected, both squads were trying to take control of this match, which meant possession was key and chances to strike were going to be few.

In the first half, it was Spain doing what it has done all tournament, controlling the pace of play and being quick with decision-making near their opponent's box.

By the end of the first half, no team cracked the scoreboard, as each country was immediately talking about what was needed to change that. They'd have more time to do so, as Madonna, Shakira, Justin Bieber and many other musical guests performed at halftime on the field at New York/New Jersey Stadium.

Just seconds later, though, a key moment came in this final match as Enzo Fernandez's poor challenge led to his second yellow card, which brought out a red card in the 93rd minute. From that point on, Argentina had to play down one man.

As play resumed, a cross into the box was kept alive by Williams' head, and the ball landed right at the foot of Torres. Torres wasn't trying to be cheeky, as he ripped a shot that slammed underneath the crossbar to finally put a goal on the board in the 106th minute.

Argentina tried its hardest to generate chances on Simon to keep their World Cup hopes alive, but to no avail. In the end, Spain didn't allow a single shot on goal, while generating 20 of their own.

Throughout the entire tournament, Spain gave up just one goal to their opponents, showcasing dominance from beginning to end. It was only right their tournament ended with trophy in hand.

Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital. [The article's only reference to the president is a cross-promoted headline linking to the separate anthem story: "TRUMP TAKES IN JENNIFER HUDSON'S INCREDIBLE NATIONAL ANTHEM PERFORMANCE BEFORE WORLD CUP FINAL". The trophy ceremony does not appear in the match report.]