Spain beats Argentina to win 2026 FIFA World Cup behind Ferran Torres' extra-time goal

Fox News chief correspondent Jonathan Hunt reports live from East Rutherford, N.J., ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain on 'Fox News Sunday.'

For the second time in FIFA World Cup history, Spain can call themselves champions. 

It was Ferran Torres, who subbed into the match in the second half, who finally got the ball past Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez in extra time for the 1-0 victory at New York/New Jersey Stadium on Sunday night. 

This was Spain’s second-ever trip to the World Cup Final, but just like they did in 2010, they got the job done.

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Spain's forward Ferran Torres celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the 2026 World Cup football tournament final match between Spain and Argentina at the New York/New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. (FRANCK FIFE / AFP via Getty Images)

Meanwhile, if this was Lionel Messi’s final match for Argentina, it ended in heartbreak. 

As expected, both squads were trying to take control of this match, which meant possession was key and chances to strike were going to be few. 

In the first half, it was Spain doing what it has done all tournament, controlling the pace of play and being quick with decision-making near their opponent’s box. 

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Lamine Yamal and company had some chances early on, but none were able to get past Emiliano Martínez’s goal line. 

On the other end, Unai Simón faced even less pressure from the Argentina attack, as Spain’s strong defense continued against Lionel Messi and his compatriots. 

By the end of the first half, no team cracked the scoreboard, as each