Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the FIFA World Cup, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to hand La Roja their second World Cup title.
Torres struck with a powerful half volley after a brilliant move involving Pedro Porro and Nico Williams, finally beating goalkeeper Emi Martinez after Spain had dominated the match with 20 shots.
Argentina’s task became even harder when Enzo Fernandez was sent off just before the end of normal time after receiving a second yellow card. Reduced to 10 men, the defending champions battled bravely but could not keep Spain out in extra time.
Spain completed a remarkable tournament by conceding just one goal, becoming the first World Cup champions to achieve that feat. They also became the only nation to win the European Championship and the World Cup in consecutive tournaments on two occasions.
For Lionel Messi, it was a heartbreaking end to another memorable World Cup campaign. The 39 year old finished the tournament with eight goals and four assists, but Spain’s disciplined defense kept him quiet for most of the final. After the match, the Argentine captain left the field in tears as his dream of retaining the World Cup came to an end.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, aged 65, became the oldest coach to win the World Cup, while Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni admitted Spain deserved the victory after a dominant display.
