Spain Beat Argentina to Lift Second World Cup Title

Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup champions for the second time after Ferran Torres scored a dramatic extra-time winner to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory over defending champions Argentina in Sunday's final.

Torres struck in the 106th minute, pouncing on a loose ball inside the penalty area before firing past goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez to end Argentina's four-year reign as world champions.

The triumph gave Spain their first World Cup title since 2010 and capped an unbeaten tournament under coach Luis de la Fuente, whose side impressed with its blend of tactical discipline, technical quality and attacking football.

Spain dominated possession from the outset and created the better chances, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal once again orchestrating much of the team's attacking play.

Yamal forced an early save from Martínez after combining with Dani Olmo, before threatening again from a precise pass by Rodri.

Argentina, seeking back-to-back World Cup titles, relied on quick counterattacks led by captain Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez, but Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón produced a composed performance, repeatedly denying dangerous attacks.

Rodri dictated play in midfield, while Álex Baena, Mikel Oyarzabal and Marc Cucurella stretched Argentina's defence with sustained pressure down the flanks.

The contest became increasingly physical before halftime, with Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić issuing several yellow cards. Argentina also suffered a setback when defender Lisandro Martínez was forced off injured and replaced by Nicolás Otamendi.

Spain continued to control the game after the break, but Argentina defended resolutely and looked to exploit space on the counterattack.

Coach Lionel Scaloni introduced Leandro Paredes to strengthen the midfield, while Spain responded by bringing on Pedri, Ferran Torres, Nico Williams and Mikel Merino—substitutions that ultimately proved decisive.

Argentina's hopes took a major hit deep into stoppage time when Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsí, leaving the defending champions to play extra time with 10 men.

Spain finally found the breakthrough early in the second period of extra time. Yamal released Pedro Porro down the right, whose cross was headed back across goal by Nico Williams. Torres reacted quickest, smashing a left-footed volley into the roof of the net to send the Spanish supporters into celebration.

Argentina pushed forward desperately in the closing stages, with Messi leading one final attack, but Simón and Spain's disciplined defence held firm to preserve the narrow lead.

The final whistle sparked scenes of jubilation as Spain claimed their second FIFA World Cup title, ending Argentina's reign and denying Messi a second consecutive World Cup triumph.