Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. Shortly after accepting the runners-up medal from U.S. President Donald Trump, Lionel Messi became emotional at MetLife Stadium in New York on July 20. The moment led to questions about whether it was his last game for Argentina, though no official statement has been issued by the 39-year-old player.
Messi completed 120 minutes but recorded no shots on target and created no scoring opportunities. Spain controlled the match from the start, holding 65 percent possession and taking 20 shots, with 12 on target. Argentina had 35 percent possession and managed only two attempts.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made several key saves to limit the scoreline. Argentina faced further difficulty when Lisandro Martinez suffered an injury in the 44th minute and was replaced. In stoppage time of the second half, Enzo Fernandez received a red card, leaving the team with ten players.
Spain secured the title when Ferran Torres scored in the 106th minute of extra time. A cross from Pedro Porro was kept in play by Nico Williams, allowing Torres to finish from close range.
