Spain Are World Champions Again, Ferran Torres the Hero in Extra Time

Spain are world champions for the fourth time. Luis De la Fuente's side defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, with Ferran Torres settling the match in the 106th minute — a composed finish that ended Argentina's reign as world champions and confirmed Spain's place among the game's all-time great international sides. It was a tight, controlled final, decided by a single moment of quality in extra time, with Rodrigo De Paul among those visibly devastated at the final whistle.

The victory felt like the completion of something long in the making. Spain's possession-based identity, refined over nearly two decades, has now delivered World Cups in 2010 and 2026, with European Championships on either side. De la Fuente's tournament management will be scrutinised and celebrated in equal measure in the days ahead.

The aftermath, however, brought complications. FIFA confirmed it will investigate Argentina's behaviour following the final, a significant development that casts a shadow over the tournament's close. Enzo Fernandez, one of those at the centre of attention, was quick to praise his squad's conduct throughout the competition. The 2026 World Cup is over — but its final chapter is not yet fully written.