Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in extra time to reclaim the FIFA World Cup title.
Spain became the 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final played in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The victory clinched Spain’s second World Cup title, ending Argentina’s determined resistance with a decisive goal in the second period of extra time.
Luis de la Fuente’s side commanded possession and controlled much of the contest from the opening whistle, steadily pushing forward in search of success. Despite their dominance, they found it difficult to control an inspired Emiliano Martinez, whose brilliant saves kept the Argentine in contention throughout the match.
Spain had their first meaningful chance when teenage star Lamin Yamal tested Martinez with a low strike from inside the area. As the first half progressed, Mikel Oyarzabal and Marc Cucorella also threatened, but Argentina’s disciplined defensive style prevented the Europeans from taking the lead before the break.
Argentina’s defensive plans were affected due to injuries during the match. Lezandro Martinez was taken off before half-time and replaced by Nicolas Otamendi, while Cristian Romero made way for Facundo Medina later in the second half. Despite the changes implemented, Lionel Scaloni’s side continued to frustrate Spain and relied heavily on Martinez’s heroics between the posts.
After the break, chances of a Spanish attack continued to emerge. Ferran Torres missed a promising header from Yamal’s delivery, while Pau Cubbersi, Padre and Nico Williams had efforts denied by the Argentina goalkeeper. Martinez then made another remarkable save to keep out Yamal’s dangerous free kick at the end of regulation time.
Argentina’s challenge stiffened significantly in stoppage time when Enzo Fernandez received his second yellow card and was sent off, leaving the defending champions to play extra time with ten men.
Spain finally got a chance to win in the 106th minute. Pedro Porro delivered a cross to the far post, where Nico Williams brilliantly headed the ball towards goal. Torres reacted first, firing a first-time finish into the roof of the net to finally beat Martinez and send the Spanish supporters into celebration.
Although Argentina pressed late in extra time, Spain held on to protect their slender advantage. The victory marked another memorable chapter in Spanish football history, as they lifted the World Cup trophy for the second time after a disciplined and dominant performance against one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
The post Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in extra time to regain the FIFA World Cup title appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.
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