Spain have been crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after defeating Argentina 1-0 in a tense final played at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford.

The victory saw La Roja reclaim football’s biggest prize 16 years after their maiden World Cup triumph in 2010, while ending Argentina’s hopes of becoming the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the title.

The highly anticipated final brought together two footballing giants, with Spain’s possession-based approach facing Argentina’s experience and resilience under the bright lights of the world’s biggest sporting stage.

Neither side could find a breakthrough during regulation time as both teams produced a cautious but intense battle, with defensive organisation and midfield control taking centre stage.

Spain dominated possession for long spells, patiently building attacks and attempting to unlock an Argentina side that remained compact and dangerous on the counterattack.

Argentina, led by their experienced core that had delivered the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar, relied on moments of individual brilliance and quick transitions but found Spain’s backline difficult to penetrate.

With the scores level after 90 minutes, the contest moved into extra time, where the pressure of the occasion intensified.

Spain finally broke the deadlock with the decisive goal by Ferran Torres, sending their players and supporters into celebration as Argentina were forced to chase the match.

The defending champions pushed forward in search of an equaliser during the closing stages, but Spain’s defence stood firm to secure a historic victory.

The triumph completed a remarkable knockout campaign for Spain, who defeated Portugal in the Round of 16, overcame Belgium in the quarter-finals and beat France in the semi-finals before facing Argentina in the final.

Their journey to the title highlighted their balance between attacking quality and defensive discipline, qualities that proved crucial in the decisive stages of the tournament.

For Argentina, the defeat marked a painful end to their title defence after another impressive run that saw them overcome several strong opponents to reach consecutive World Cup finals.

The South American giants had hoped to join an exclusive list of teams to win back-to-back World Cups, but Spain denied them the opportunity with a disciplined display when it mattered most.

Spain’s victory adds another golden chapter to their football history and confirms their return to the summit of international football after years of rebuilding following their 2010 success.

The 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, concludes with Spain standing as champions of the expanded 48-team tournament.