Spain (2nd title, first since 2010) crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Argentina [ 1–0 ] in extra time. Ferran Torres scored in the 106th minute, assisted by Nico Williams. Spain conceded only one goal across eight matches, setting a new record for champions.
Historic achievements:
Spain became the first team to win both the Euros (2024) and the World Cup (2026) back-to-back.
Coach Luis de la Fuente remained unbeaten in all 15 major tournament matches.
Argentina’s struggle: Lionel Messi’s side failed to register a single shot on target in the final, a rare occurrence in World Cup history.
Individual honors: Rodri was named Player of the Tournament, while Unai Simón won the Golden Glove.
Key Player Stats:
Golden Boot (Top Scorer): Kylian Mbapp̩ (France) Р10 goals, first player to win Golden Boot in two World Cups (2022 & 2026).
Runner-up Scorers: Lionel Messi (Argentina, 8 goals), Erling Haaland (Norway, 7), Jude Bellingham (England, 7).
Golden Ball (Best Player): Rodri (Spain) – first Spaniard to win it.
Golden Glove: Unai Simón (Spain).
Best Young Player: Pau Cubarsà (Spain).
Historic Firsts:
Lamine Yamal (Spain) – first-ever teenager to win both Euros and World Cup; 3rd youngest to play in a World Cup final.
Messi – first man to start in three World Cup finals, oldest outfield player in a final (39 years, 25 days.
Matches Played: 104.
Goals Scored: 308.
Spain’s Clean Sheets: 7 (record for most in a single World Cup).
Argentina: 0 shots on target in the final – only team to do so in a WC final over last 60 years.
Longest Unbeaten Streak: Spain extended to 38 matches, breaking Italy’s record.
In short, the article emphasizes Spain’s tactical discipline, Torres’ decisive strike, and Argentina’s inability to break through in Messi’s last World Cup final.
