Spain reclaimed soccer’s biggest prize on Sunday by defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time in a tense World Cup final that featured intense drama both on and off the pitch.
Ferran Torres’ decisive strike sealed the match, ending Argentina’s title defense and giving Spain their second World Cup crown.
This loss was particularly painful for Lionel Messi. Messi left the field in tears after winning his runner-up medal in what was expected to be his final World Cup appearance.
US President Donald Trump also attended the medal and trophy presentation ceremony, along with FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and the leaders of co-hosts Canada and Mexico also attended the final. Trump and Infantino were booed during the ceremony.
Besides the game, one of the biggest talking points of the night was the Super Bowl-inspired halftime show. Shakira, Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber and Burna Boy took to the stage during an extended break supervised by Coldplay’s Chris Martin.
Spain defeats Argentina
Rodri of Spain celebrates by lifting the FIFA World Cup trophy with his teammates after the match between Spain and Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
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Spain’s Ferran Torres celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal during the match.
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Argentina’s Lionel Messi after the first half of the final.
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Messi on the field during the final match between Spain and Argentina.
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trump and infantino
US President Donald J. Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino with the FIFA World Cup trophy at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Finals.
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President Trump and Infantino presenting the FIFA World Cup trophy to Rodri.
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Joy and heartbreak in the stands and beyond
Indian fans react after Argentina loses to Spain.
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – JULY 19: Spain fans celebrate the team’s first goal by No. 7 Ferran Torres during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina at New York-New Jersey Stadium on July 19, 2026 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo credit: Ezra Shaw – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
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half time show
Shakira performs during the Topps Finals Halftime Show The Finals game.
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BTS’s Jimin, V, J-Hope, and Jungkook perform at the FIFA World Cup finals.
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