Spain secured its second FIFA World Cup title with a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina, as captain Rodri was named the tournament's best player.

Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time on Sunday to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, securing Spain's second world title and their first since 2010. Following the match, Spanish fans celebrated in Madrid and Barcelona, while Spain captain Rodri was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.

Rodri's Return and Achievement

The victory marked a significant personal milestone for 30-year-old midfielder Rodri, who returned to competition in May 2026 after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in September 2024. By winning the World Cup, Rodri joined an elite group of players—including Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Muller, and Zinedine Zidane—who have won the World Cup, the European Championship, the Champions League, and the Ballon d'Or. Reflecting on his recovery, Rodri described the experience as descending into "hell" before returning to the top of the sport. He expressed hope that his journey would serve as an example for younger generations regarding the ability to overcome adversity. Despite his individual accolades, Rodri emphasized the collective effort of the Spanish squad in overcoming a resilient Argentina side.

The Final Match Dynamics

The final was a tightly contested affair that remained scoreless through regulation time. Rodri noted that while Argentina was difficult to break down, Spain maintained a brave approach throughout the match. The decisive moment arrived in the second period of extra time when Ferran Torres found the net, ending the deadlock. For Argentina, the result denied Lionel Messi a second consecutive World Cup title. Rodri praised the opposition, acknowledging their status as world champions, but maintained that Spain's performance throughout the tournament and in the final justified their victory. The win concludes a tournament that Rodri described as the toughest in World Cup history.