By Nabakiibi Doreen Malaika
Spain have been crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after beating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a tense final at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.
The victory handed Spain their second World Cup title, adding to the trophy they won in South Africa in 2010, and brought the curtain down on the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The final was tight from the opening whistle, with both sides defending well and creating few clear chances. Spain controlled possession for long spells, while Argentina remained dangerous on the counterattack.
Neither side found a breakthrough in the first half, and the match remained goalless at the break.
Spain continued to build patiently in the second half, while Argentina looked to attack in transition. The defending champions frustrated Spain throughout normal time but were reduced to 10 men when Enzo Fernández was sent off late in the match after receiving a second yellow card.
With the score still 0-0 after 90 minutes, the final went into extra time.
Spain pressed their advantage against 10-man Argentina and forced the South Americans deeper into their own half. Argentina defended with discipline, but the pressure eventually told.
The breakthrough came in the 106th minute when Ferran Torres converted Nico Williams’ pass to put Spain ahead.
Argentina pushed for an equaliser despite being a man down, but Spain held firm to seal a famous victory and reclaim football’s biggest prize 16 years after their first triumph.
The win completed an impressive campaign for La Roja, who combined attacking quality, discipline and resilience on their way to the title.
