New York, July 19: Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup champions for the second time after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in the final at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.
The final remained goalless through 90 minutes as both sides struggled to create clear scoring opportunities. Spain dominated possession and produced repeated attempts, but Argentina’s defence and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez kept the European side at bay.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 106th minute when substitute Ferran Torres found the net in extra time, giving Spain the decisive advantage. Argentina had earlier been reduced to 10 men following Enzo Fernandez’s dismissal.
Spain held on through the closing stages to secure their first World Cup title since 2010. The triumph also extended their remarkable unbeaten run and capped a tournament in which their defence conceded only once before the final.
For Argentina, the defeat ended their bid to retain the world crown, while Lionel Messi’s appearance in the final added another emotional chapter to his illustrious World Cup career.