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Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup champions for the second time after defeating 10-man Argentina 1-0 in extra time in a tense but largely uneventful final that came alive in its closing stages.
Barcelona winger Ferran Torres emerged as the match winner, scoring in the 106th minute to finally break Argentina’s stubborn resistance after a goalless 90 minutes.
Argentina’s hopes had suffered a major setback just before the end of normal time when Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, forcing the South Americans to play the remainder of the match with 10 men.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Argentina defended resolutely and relied heavily on goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who produced a string of outstanding saves to keep Spain at bay for much of the contest.
The breakthrough eventually came when Pedro Porro’s cross was brilliantly kept in play by Nico Williams, allowing Torres to fire home from close range and spark celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters.
Spain dominated proceedings throughout, registering 20 shots compared to Argentina’s two, with the South Americans failing to seriously threaten until the closing moments of extra time.
The final whistle was followed by heated scenes as a confrontation involving both teams resulted in Boca Juniors midfielder Leandro Paredes being shown a red card after pushing Gavi and Eric García to the ground.
Spain’s triumph adds the World Cup to the UEFA European Championship they won two years ago, making them holders of both major international titles for the second time in their history, having previously achieved the feat after winning the 2010 World Cup.
Captain Rodri lifted the trophy after also being named Player of the Tournament.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi, playing in what was his final World Cup appearance, received a standing ovation from supporters as he collected his runners-up medal in tears.
The final attracted several high-profile guests, including U.S. President Donald Trump, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, King Felipe VI of Spain, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Although the tournament produced numerous thrilling matches and dramatic comebacks, the final itself was largely a tactical affair before Torres’ extra-time strike ultimately separated the two sides.