Spain secures second World Cup title with 1-0 victory over Argentina

By Chukwuemeka Umeh — 20 July 2026 — 3 min read

Spain claimed their second World Cup title after defeating Argentina 1-0 in the final. The decisive goal came from Ferran Torres in the second half of extra time, securing the victory in a match that saw Argentina struggle to create scoring opportunities.

The final, held in New York New Jersey, concluded with Argentina failing to register a shot in normal time and no efforts on target throughout the entire 120 minutes. This performance led to national newspapers in Argentina defending the team despite what was described as a dismal and ill-disciplined display.

Argentine Press Defends Team

Following the 1-0 loss, Argentina’s national media rallied behind their team. Publications like Clarin featured a tearful image of Lionel Messi with the headline, “They gave it their all, nothing to blame them for.” Similarly, La Nacion stated, “Argentina gave it their all – and they’re a source of national pride.” Another paper, Ole, used the headline “May they be eternal” alongside another image of a tearful Messi.

Despite the supportive headlines, Argentina’s performance was marked by ill-discipline. Enzo Fernandez received two yellow cards, first for dissent and then for a challenge on Pau Cubarsi. After the final whistle, Leandro Paredes was also shown a red card for his angry reaction, and Nahuel Molina confronted Spain players, leading to chaotic scenes.

Commentator Gary Neville remarked on Paredes’ conduct, stating, “I love the competitiveness of the Argentines but Paredes has been a disgrace the last couple of games.” FIFA is expected to investigate these post-match incidents to determine if additional disciplinary action is warranted.

Spain Celebrates Second Triumph

In contrast to Argentina’s subdued return, Spain’s media celebrated their nation’s second World Cup triumph with enthusiasm. Headlines such as “The world is ours” from AS and “The world surrenders to Spain” from El Periodico reflected the widespread joy. ABC lauded Spain as “invincible,” highlighting their 38-game unbeaten streak in international football. Multiple papers also referred to Spain as “double champions” and “superstars.”

The Spanish team, led by captain Rodri and head coach Luis de la Fuente, returned to Madrid to a hero’s welcome. Their plane landed at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport, and they were scheduled for an extravagant trophy parade through the capital’s streets. Crowds had already gathered in locations like Puerta de Sol and Cibeles Square, anticipating the celebrations.

The parade was set to begin at 7pm local time (6pm BST), following a period of downtime for the players, coaching staff, and federation officials, who were transported to a secure location for lunch before the festivities. Ferran Torres’ goal, scored at 106 minutes from a layoff by fellow substitute Nico Williams, was crucial in securing the win.

Eight players from Barcelona were part of the winning Spanish squad: Joan Garcia, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsí, Gavi, Pedri, Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, and Lamine Yamal. Dani Olmo, Lamine Yamal, and Pau Cubarsí were in the starting lineup for Spain in the final. Pedri and Ferran entered the game in the second half of normal time, while Eric Garcia made his tournament debut in extra time, replacing Aymeric Laporte.

This victory adds these eight players to a list of 20 Barcelona players who have won the World Cup while affiliated with the club. Previous Barcelona winners include Romário in 1994, Rivaldo in 2002, and several players in 2010 and 2018.

The World Cup final also marked what was likely the final appearance for Lionel Messi in the tournament, with the post-match events further souring the occasion for the 39-year-old.

Spain’s open-top bus parade was scheduled to commence at 7pm local time.

Source: skysports.com