Washington (Rajeev Sharma): Spain lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in a tense final that remained deadlocked until extra time. The decisive moment came in the 106th minute when substitute Ferran Torres found the back of the net to crown Spain as the new world champions.
The Spanish side dictated the pace for most of the contest, enjoying the lion’s share of possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Despite the sustained pressure, Argentina’s defence, led by goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, held firm during regulation time to keep Lionel Messi’s side in the contest.
Argentina’s task became significantly tougher late in the match when midfielder Enzo Fernández was shown a second yellow card, forcing the defending champions to play the closing stages and extra time with 10 men.
Spain eventually broke the deadlock after Torres capitalised on a loose ball inside the penalty area, calmly slotting home the winner to send Spanish players and supporters into celebration.
Although Argentina fought until the final whistle, they were unable to produce an equaliser, bringing an end to their reign as world champions. Spain’s disciplined display and attacking intent throughout the match ultimately proved enough to secure the title.
The victory also created a unique milestone in international football, with Spain becoming the first country to simultaneously hold both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup crowns.
The final brought the curtain down on the largest World Cup ever staged, featuring 48 nations across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament concluded with a record-breaking 308 goals scored in 104 matches.
Football’s biggest event also attracted global attention beyond the pitch, with celebrities, sporting legends and world leaders filling the stands for the title clash. The closing ceremony and halftime entertainment added to the grandeur of the occasion, making it one of the most memorable World Cup finals in recent history.
Spain’s triumph marks the culmination of an impressive campaign, with a blend of experienced players and emerging stars delivering when it mattered most to reclaim football’s biggest prize.
