Spain have won the 2026 World Cup, but were forced to wait until the Ferran Torres strike in extra time to break down 10-man Argentina, who left Lautaro Martinez on the bench throughout.
Both teams were still unbeaten going into the Final, but Argentina made changes with Juventus winger Nico Gonzalez entering the starting XI, leaving Inter’s Lautaro Martinez and Como starlet Nico Paz on the bench.
Lionel Messi made history as the second player after Marcos Cafu to play in three World Cup Finals. Lamine Yamal shook off a left thigh issue to play for Spain, who drew their opener with Cape Verde and got stronger as the tournament went on, beating favourites France in the semi-final.
Nico Gonzalez #15 of Argentina controls the ball against Pedro Porro #12 of Spain during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Emiliano Martinez was tested by a deflected Lamine Yamal effort at the near post in the opening minutes, but had to wait until the 39th to smother the Mikel Oyarzabal strike, then watched Marc Cucurella’s angled drive flash wide.
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