World Cup | Spain 1-0 Argentina: Champions again after 16 years

World

2026.07.20 10:30

Spain defeated the defending champions Argentina 1–0 in extra time to claim their second World Cup title, following their first triumph at the 2010 tournament in South Africa. (CCTV)

The blockbuster final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, kicked off at 3:00 am Hong Kong time today (July 20). Spain defeated the defending champions Argentina 1–0 in extra time to claim their second World Cup title, following their first triumph at the 2010 tournament in South Africa.

Neither side managed to break the deadlock in regular time. Overall, Spain dominated proceedings and held the attacking advantage, registering 15 shots on goal. Argentina, by contrast, was largely confined to a defensive posture and struggled to mount any effective offense, managing zero shots on target during the 90 minutes.

In stoppage time of the second half, Argentina's Enzo Fernández picked up a second yellow card for a foul, resulting in a red card and his dismissal. Argentina was thus forced to play the remainder of the match with ten men.

In the 97th minute, Spain's Nico Williams found the net, but the goal was ruled out due to a foul by his teammate Mikel Merino in the buildup.

In the 106th minute, Ferran Torres scored for Spain, putting his side 1–0 ahead.

Spain's Ferran Torres (left) and Nico Williams (right) celebrate a goal during the match. (CCTV Sports)

In the 112th minute, Torres added another goal, but it was disallowed for offside.

In the end, Spain defeated Argentina 1–0 to claim their second World Cup crown, 16 years after their first.

Throughout this World Cup campaign, Spain conceded just one goal in eight matches, setting a new record for the fewest goals conceded by a champion in a single tournament.

Spain had previously won back-to-back European Championships and World Cups in 2008 and 2010. Now, following their triumphs at UEFA Euro 2024 and the 2026 World Cup, they have achieved this dual feat for a second time.

With this victory, Spain has now gone 38 consecutive matches without defeat in regular time, setting a new unbeaten record for a European national team.

In extra time, Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the match, securing a 1–0 victory for Spain over Argentina and delivering their second World Cup title, 16 years after their first.