Spain has been crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in a hard-fought final to secure the second World Cup title in the nation’s history.
The triumph marks Spain’s first World Cup success since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010 and caps an impressive campaign under Luis de la Fuente, whose side combined youthful talent with disciplined performances throughout the tournament.
Spain’s journey to the title did not begin smoothly. Their campaign opened with a goalless draw against Cape Verde, prompting questions about whether they had what it took to challenge for the trophy.
Those doubts quickly disappeared as La Roja found their rhythm and produced a string of impressive displays in the knockout rounds.
They cruised past Austria with a 3-0 victory in the Round of 32 before overcoming Portugal 1-0 in a closely contested Iberian derby.
Spain then defeated Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-finals before a commanding 2-0 win over France secured their place in the final.
Standing in their way were Argentina, the defending champions, led by Lionel Messi. The South Americans had reached the final after victories over Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland and England.
In the title decider, however, Spain produced another composed performance, limiting Argentina’s attacking threat and controlling key moments of the game.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the second half of extra time when Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal, sealing a 1-0 victory and confirming Spain as the 2026 FIFA World Cup champions.
