Photos: Spain beat Argentina to win second World Cup title

Spain claimed their second World Cup championship with a 1–0 victory over Argentina in a tightly contested final held Sunday at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, before more than 80,000 spectators. The match remained scoreless through regular time, with Argentina's task becoming significantly more difficult when midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a red card in the 93rd minute for a second yellow card following a reckless challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi.

Argentina, the defending champions, struggled to mount an offensive threat throughout the encounter. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made several crucial saves to keep his team in contention, but Argentina managed few meaningful attempts on goal. Spain, the 2010 World Cup winners, dominated possession and created numerous scoring opportunities, finally breaking through early in the second half of extra time.

The breakthrough came in the 106th minute when Nico Williams provided a precise knock-back to substitute Ferran Torres, who finished decisively into the upper corner of the net. Spain's victory prevented Argentina from becoming the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive World Cup titles. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged Spain's superiority, stating they were the better side on the day.

The trophy presentation was conducted by U.S. President Donald Trump, who was loudly booed upon entering the pitch alongside FIFA chief Gianni Infantino. Lionel Messi, 39, was largely contained by Spain's possession-based approach and appeared emotional while collecting his runners-up medal. The match showcased Spain's technical superiority and physical resilience against an aging Argentine squad that had exceeded expectations to reach the final.