Victory for football? Spain beat Argentina to win World Cup

What the report says

BBC Sport reported that Spain defeated Argentina after extra time in the 2026 men’s World Cup final in New Jersey, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute. Rodri lifted the trophy as Spain became men’s world champions for the second time, adding to a period of Spanish dominance that the BBC described as including world, Olympic and European titles across its national teams.

According to the BBC, Spain controlled much of the final, finishing with 65% possession, 20 shots, 11 on target, and an expected goals total of 1.94. Argentina did not register a shot in the opening 90 minutes, with Lionel Messi credited with their first attempt in the 117th minute. Goalkeeper Unai Simon won the Golden Glove after keeping his seventh clean sheet in eight matches, while Spain conceded only once during the tournament.

The report highlighted Spain’s passing dominance, saying Rodri completed 101 passes and Pau Cubarsi 121, with Cubarsi named young player of the tournament. Lamine Yamal, aged 19 years and six days, was noted as one of the youngest players to appear in and win a World Cup final.

The match also drew attention for Argentina’s discipline and post-match conduct. Enzo Fernandez was sent off in the 90th minute after receiving a second yellow card for a late challenge on Cubarsi. BBC pundits Alan Shearer, Wayne Rooney and Joe Hart said Spain were deserved winners and criticised Argentina’s behaviour, while Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged that Spain merited the victory despite questioning how the game might have unfolded with 11 players.