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Welcome to the grand finale of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Spain and Argentina, the two top-ranked national teams, faced off in New York/New Jersey. The European champions Spain locked horns with the reigning world and South American champions Argentina, promising a thrilling conclusion to a remarkable summer of football.

Pre-match celebrations were in full swing with American singer Jennifer Hudson performing the United States national anthem, followed by the unveiling of the World Cup trophy. The crowd buzzed with anticipation as both teams prepared to take the field, with Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal drawing much attention for Spain and Lionel Messi stepping out for what was likely his final World Cup appearance.

Spain began with authority, dictating tempo inside Argentina’s half. Early on, Mikel Oyarzabal, Dani Olmo, and Yamal combined beautifully to test Emiliano Martínez, who collected comfortably. The first foul came from Pedro Porro before Spain earned their initial corner, taken by Álex Baena. The Spanish dominance was clear as Argentina struggled to gain momentum in the opening 20 minutes.

Marc Cucurella tried his luck from distance, narrowly missing the far post, before Lisandro Martínez received the first yellow card of the evening. Nicolás Otamendi replaced Lisandro after an early injury setback. Despite Spain’s control, Argentina held firm, entering the hydration break goalless.

As the half progressed, Spain continued to create chances. Baena’s shot from the top of the box was again stopped by Martínez, while referee decisions came under scrutiny for challenges involving Nicolás Tagliafico and Alexis Mac Allister. At half-time, Spain were dominant but goalless, with Argentina fortunate to remain level. The first half ended Spain 0-0 Argentina.

After the break, Argentina made another substitution, with Leandro Paredes replacing Nico González. Spain resumed their attack, winning multiple corners and forcing Martínez into several saves. Dani Olmo’s long-range effort was spilled, leading to another corner, and Yamal’s delivery found Ferran Torres, but Martínez held firm.

Spain made tactical changes—Oyarzabal and Ruiz were replaced by Ferran Torres and Pedri—to inject fresh energy. Argentina responded by bringing on Nahuel Molina for Gonzalo Montiel and later introducing Giuliano Simeone and Facundo Medina for Rodrigo De Paul and Cristian Romero, who picked up an injury.

Despite Argentina’s efforts, La Roja remained composed and created further openings through Yamal and Ferran. Martínez’s heroics continued as he denied Laporte’s header and a curling effort from Yamal. Spain had a goal disallowed when Nico Williams’ strike was ruled out for a foul by Mikel Merino on Otamendi during the build-up.

As full-time approached, tensions rose. Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card, reducing Argentina to ten men. Williams forced Martínez into his ninth save, setting a World Cup final record. Normal time ended goalless: Spain 0-0 Argentina.

In extra time, Spain maintained control while Argentina battled fatigue. Yamal’s free-kick was parried away by Martínez in his tenth save. As the match seemed destined for penalties, Ferran Torres finally broke the deadlock, scoring from close range after a sustained spell of Spanish pressure. Spain 1-0 Argentina.

Argentina pushed desperately for an equaliser, with Messi orchestrating attacks and Simeone firing over from inside the box. However, Spain’s defence, led by Pau Cubarsí and Laporte, held strong. Mikel Merino came close to adding another, heading narrowly wide.

Tempers flared late on, with Lionel Scaloni booked for protesting and post-match scuffles resulting in another Argentine red card. As the final whistle blew, Spain secured their second World Cup title, denying Messi a fairytale ending to his international career.

US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino took to the pitch for the trophy presentation, greeted by boos from sections of the crowd. Spain celebrated joyously, while Argentina’s players consoled a visibly emotional Messi, who had given everything in his final World Cup appearance.

It was a fitting end to a spectacular tournament, with Spain reaffirming their status among football’s elite. For Messi and Argentina, it was a night of heartbreak, but one that will be remembered for the passion, drama, and brilliance that defined the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Thank you for following our coverage throughout this unforgettable summer of football. Stay tuned for live updates from the Premier League and European club competitions as we head into the 2026/27 season.