NEW DELHI: Spain substitute Ferran Torres has etched his name FIFA World Cup history after scoring the winning goal in the 106th minute of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday. With the strike, Torres became only the second substitute to score the winning goal in a World Cup final, joining Germany’s Mario Götze, who also achieved the feat against Argentina in the 2014 final. Torres came off the bench in the 62nd minute and made the decisive impact as Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time to lift their second FIFA World Cup title. The first Spanish triumph in the World Cup came in 2010.
Spain dominates but struggles to find breakthroughs
Spain controlled the final for long periods, enjoying most of the possession and creating many chances. They continued to push forward while Argentina, led by Lionel Messihe defended deep and managed to take the match into extra time despite his constant pressure.At the start of extra time, Spain had already created many more chances, but had not been able to beat Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.
Torres aims to win the title
The breakthrough finally came in the 106th minute. Nico Williams kept a long cross alive, heading the ball into the center of the penalty area, where Torres reacted most quickly. The Spanish forward fired a left-footed shot that flew under the crossbar and into the net, giving Martínez no chance.It was Spain’s 20th goal of the match and Torres’ first goal of the tournament. His goal was enough to secure a famous 1-0 victory and Spain’s second World Cup crown.Spain held on comfortably to end Argentina’s reign as world champions and lift football’s biggest trophy for the second time.