Spain clinches second World Cup title after muting Messi

European champions Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing their second men’s world title at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Substitute Ferran Torres emerged as Spain’s hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute. He met a back-post delivery from Nico Williams to finally break Argentina’s resistance after a tense and closely contested final.

The Spaniards dominated the match from start to finish. They enjoyed 65 per cent possession and fired 20 shots, while Argentina managed only two attempts throughout the contest. Spain’s control ensured Lionel Messi had little influence in what is widely expected to be his final World Cup appearance.

Messi was restricted to just 54 touches and one shot across the full 120 minutes. Spain’s youthful defence consistently denied him space and time, preventing the Argentine captain from producing the moments of brilliance that defined his international career.

Argentina also struggled to create chances. The South Americans failed to register a single shot during the 90 minutes of regulation time, highlighting Spain’s defensive discipline and tactical superiority.

Their task became even more difficult in extra time after midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off in the 93rd minute for a second yellow card.

Reduced to 10 men, Argentina were forced to defend for the remainder of the match before eventually conceding the winner.

Spain’s triumph was equally remarkable for its defensive record. They became the first nation to win a FIFA World Cup while conceding only one goal throughout the tournament.

The champions also kept seven clean sheets on their way to lifting the trophy.

The victory extended Spain’s unbeaten run to 38 international matches, surpassing Italy’s previous all-time record.

Spain also dominated the individual awards. Captain Rodri was named the tournament’s Golden Ball winner as the best player, while Unai Simón received the Golden Glove as the competition’s outstanding goalkeeper.

Nineteen-year-old defender Pau Cubarsí was recognised as the Best Young Player after a series of composed performances.

For Messi, the defeat marked a heartbreaking conclusion to an extraordinary World Cup journey. He reached the final three times, winning the trophy in 2022 but finishing as runner-up on two occasions.

Following the final whistle, the 39-year-old was seen in tears on the pitch as Spain celebrated a historic second World Cup title.