Spain defeated Lionel Messi's Argentina 1-0 in extra time at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19 to capture their second FIFA World Cup title, breaking Argentine hearts and denying the defending champions a chance to become the first team to retain the trophy since Brazil in 1962. Substitute Ferran Torres struck in the 106th minute, pouncing on a bouncing ball in the box to bury a left-footed shot under the crossbar.
The match was a tense, tactical affair with Argentina reduced to 10 men for much of the second half. The defending champions failed to register a single attempt on goal until the 117th minute, as Spain's young squad — inspired by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal — controlled possession and dictated the tempo throughout. It was a dramatic end to what has been a spectacular tournament for Spain, who defeated some of the world's best teams en route to the title.
For Lionel Messi, playing in what is almost certainly his final World Cup at age 39, the loss was devastating. The Argentine legend fought back tears as he watched Spain's players lift the trophy at midfield. Despite the heartbreak, Messi delivered an outstanding tournament with eight goals and four assists, bringing his World Cup career total to 21 goals. He was later named the IFFHS Best Player for his performances.
Spain's victory marks the country's second World Cup championship, adding to their 2010 title. The win also cements the legacy of a new generation of Spanish talent, with Yamal, Pedri, and the match-winner Torres at the heart of a team that dominated the global stage. For Argentina, the question now turns to the future — both for an aging squad and for a devastated fan base still processing the near-miss.