EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J.: Ferran Torres’ extra-time strike secured Spain’s second World Cup title, ending Argentina’s reign in a 1-0 triumph on Sunday. Coming off the bench, Torres capitalized on a loose ball in the box, firing a left-footed effort under the crossbar to deliver a historic win.
“It was a goal scored by 47 million people,” Torres said, reflecting Spain’s population. The victory marked Spain’s dominance throughout the tournament, as they conceded just one goal across eight matches, setting a new World Cup record for fewest goals allowed by champions.
The win also made Spain the first nation to hold both men’s and women’s World Cup titles simultaneously, following their women’s triumph in 2023. Spain’s tactical mastery, characterized by sustained possession and relentless pressure, left Argentina’s late-game resilience nullified.
Lionel Messi, visibly emotional after the match, acknowledged Spain’s superiority: “They were better, to be honest.” Argentina’s lone chance came in the dying minutes when Giuliano Simeone headed over, while goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez’s 12 saves kept hope alive.
Spain’s unbeaten run now extends to 38 matches (29 wins, nine draws), surpassing Italy’s previous European record. Coach Luis de la Fuente, 65, became the oldest manager to win the World Cup, declaring, “We are world champions – it was together we reached this stage.”
Post-match tensions saw Enzo Fernandez sent off in stoppage time, leaving Argentina with 10 men. The final, played in front of 80,000 spectators and global viewership, concluded the expanded 48-team event, with Spain’s disciplined performance overriding Messi’s legendary pursuit of a second title.
“This team has won everything,” de la Fuente added, underscoring Spain’s completeness. Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni praised his squad’s effort but conceded, “The other team was better.” The victory etched Spain’s name into history, halting Argentina’s push for back-to-back championships.
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