Spain Defeats Argentina to Win 2026 FIFA World Cup
Spain is back on top of the soccer world.
Spain defeated defending champion Argentina 1-0 in extra time Sunday to capture the 2026 FIFA World Cup, winning the country's second World Cup title and its first since 2010.
The highly anticipated matchup between two of soccer's biggest powers remained scoreless through regulation. Spain controlled much of the match but struggled to turn its opportunities into goals as Argentina's defense and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez kept the defending champions alive.
The breakthrough finally came in the 106th minute. Substitute Ferran Torres finished a chance created by Nico Williams to give Spain the 1-0 advantage. The goal proved to be the difference as Argentina was unable to find an equalizer before the final whistle.
For Argentina, the loss ended its bid to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups. For Spain, the victory completed a memorable tournament run and returned the country to the top of international soccer for the first time in 16 years.
After 120 minutes of soccer, Spain stood alone as world champions, adding the 2026 trophy alongside its historic 2010 triumph.
