The referee blows for the end of extra time. Spain hold on for a 1-0 victory over Argentina. Spain 1-0 Argentina.
Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after edging defending champions Argentina 1-0 in a tense final on Sunday, lifting football’s biggest prize for the first time since their 2010 triumph.
A tightly contested encounter was decided by a single goal, with Spain producing a disciplined defensive display to deny Argentina any route back into the match. Despite Argentina enjoying spells of possession and creating several chances, Spain remained composed and protected their slender advantage until the final whistle.
The victory ended Argentina’s reign as world champions after their title-winning campaign in Qatar in 2022, while Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup crown in history.
Spain’s road to the title included victories over Portugal in the Round of 16, Belgium in the quarter-finals and France in the semi-finals before overcoming Argentina in the championship match.
The triumph sparked jubilant celebrations among Spanish players and supporters, marking a memorable conclusion to an impressive tournament campaign. Argentina, meanwhile, finished as runners-up after another strong World Cup run but were unable to successfully defend their crown.