WORLD CHAMPIONS AGAIN ! SPAIN ENDS ARGENTINA'S REIGN WITH EXTRAL-TIME MASTERCLASS

  By Olopade Sakiru 

 

Spain are back on the throne of world football after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup final played on Sunday night at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.

With millions of football fans across the globe watching, the two giants produced a tactical battle that remained deadlocked for 90 minutes. 

However, when the game appeared destined for penalties, Spanish substitute Ferran Torres rose to the occasion in the 106th minute, nodding home a superb cross from Nico Williams to send the Spanish bench into wild celebration and secure the nation's second FIFA World Cup title.   

Spain dominated possession and created the clearer opportunities before finally breaking Argentina's resistance in extra time.

The victory crowned a remarkable World Cup campaign for La Roja, who swept past Portugal, Belgium and France in the knockout stages before overcoming Argentina in the grand finale.

 Spain's youthful energy, tactical discipline and attacking flair proved decisive throughout the tournament, earning them the biggest prize in world football.

For Argentina, it was a heartbreaking end to an otherwise inspiring title defence. Despite entering the final with high hopes, the South Americans were unable to break down Spain's organised defence. 

The defeat also marks what is widely expected to be Lionel Messi's final FIFA World Cup appearance, bringing the curtain down on one of the greatest international careers in football history.

As Spain celebrate another historic achievement, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be remembered for its breathtaking drama, unforgettable upsets, emerging stars and a final worthy of football's greatest stage. 

With the trophy once again in Spanish hands, a new chapter has been written in the history of the beautiful game.