Who made the difference for Spain? World Cup final player ratings

What the report says

BBC Sport reported that Spain won the 2026 World Cup by beating Argentina 1-0 in the final in New Jersey, with Ferran Torres scoring in extra time. In a player-ratings article published on 19 July, BBC Sport journalist Neil Johnston assessed the performances after Spain added the World Cup to recent successes at Euro 2024 and the 2023 Nations League.

Johnston highlighted Spain’s defensive control, noting they finished the tournament with seven clean sheets in eight matches. Pau Cubarsi received an 8 after a composed display and, according to the BBC, became only the second player since 1966 to complete more than 100 passes in a World Cup final. Nico Williams earned Spain’s highest BBC journalist rating, a 9, after making a major impact from the bench and helping create the winning goal. Torres, who came on in the 62nd minute, was rated 8 for reacting quickest to decide the final.

Argentina’s performance was shaped by missed rhythm and discipline problems. Enzo Fernandez was rated 4 after being sent off for a second yellow card following a challenge on Cubarsi, which the BBC said was Argentina’s first World Cup red card since 2006. Lionel Messi was rated 6 in what the article framed as a potentially final World Cup appearance; the BBC said he ended the tournament with eight goals.

BBC Sport users named Lamine Yamal player of the match with an average rating of 7.94, ahead of Rodri and Williams. The result gave Spain their first World Cup title since 2010.