After an insipid final, La Roja defeated Argentina (1-0) to secure their second star. Two years after their European triumph, Spain won their second world title on Sunday near New York, dominating Argentina in a one-sided but long-locked final, before the breakthrough came from the feet of Ferran Torres in extra time (1-0), depriving Lionel Messi of a historic double.
It took until the 106th minute for the FC Barcelona striker to break the deadlock and liberate the Spaniards, who held a numerical advantage following the expulsion of Enzo Fernandez for a second yellow card in stoppage time (90+4).
Before this powerful strike that left Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez with no chance, Spain had struggled against a tough and tenacious opponent, true to its reputation but unable to pose a threat with only two shots on target in over 120 minutes of play.
This second Spanish World Cup success after 2010 rewards the strength of a collective built since 2022 by Luis de la Fuente, relying on a sovereign midfield and an iron defense. The Iberian supremacy in international football is now complete, a dominance already effective during La Roja’s first golden era between 2008 and 2012, marked by two Euro victories and a World Cup won in South Africa.
Led by 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, well supported by PSG’s key player Fabian Ruiz, and a rock-solid defense (only one goal conceded in eight matches throughout the tournament), Spain was never shaken during the five weeks spent in the United States, despite a slow start against the surprising Cape Verde (0-0). They did not even need the magic of their prodigy Lamine Yamal (19), who arrived hampered by a left thigh injury and never truly managed to showcase his immense talent during the first World Cup of his career.
The Barça forward, so influential two years ago at the Euro, was ultimately quite stifled, even in the final where he had little to work with, except for a shot in the first half (4th), a breakthrough followed by a perfect cross for Torres’ header, and a magnificent free-kick in stoppage time deflected by Martinez (90+8). A meager record for one of the planet’s football stars, but one that in no way prevented Spain from unfolding its game and creating the best opportunities, especially from distance. This suggests that this team is likely to be even more unstoppable once Lamine Yamal gains maturity and, above all, says goodbye to his physical ailments.
Captured & Published at: 2026-07-20 05:56:40 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/07/mondial-finale-lespagne-sur-le-toit-du.html