Was this the World Cup final fans dreamed of? Not quite.
But when it mattered most, Spain found the breakthrough, defeating Argentina 1-0 after extra time to lift their second men’s World Cup trophy.
For long stretches, the match was scrappy, physical and packed with stoppages rather than flowing football.
Argentina’s task became even tougher when Enzo Fernández was sent off in stoppage time after receiving a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Pau Cubarsí.
Spain finally made their dominance count in the 106th minute.
Ferran Torres pounced after Nico Williams’ header.
He fired home from close range, ending Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez’s remarkable resistance.
Spain Complete Historic Double
The final also delivered plenty of off-field spectacle. US President Donald Trump watched from the stands.
Madonna and Justin Bieber headlined a 27-minute half-time show that added Hollywood flair to football’s biggest stage.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente’s side capped an outstanding tournament, having already impressed by eliminating France in the semi-finals.
Argentina, meanwhile, struggled to impose themselves, with 39-year-old Lionel Messi largely kept quiet despite an impressive tournament overall.
Spain didn’t just win the trophy—they made history by becoming the first nation to hold both the men’s and women’s World Cup titles simultaneously.
Sometimes finals entertain. Sometimes they simply crown the best team. This one did the latter.
