EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey — Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup champions for the second time after edging Argentina 1-0 in an intense final that was decided in extra time at MetLife Stadium on Sunday.
The match remained goalless through 90 minutes despite both teams creating opportunities. Argentina looked increasingly threatening in the second half, but their hopes suffered a major setback deep into stoppage time when midfielder Enzo Fernández was shown a second yellow card and sent off, leaving the South Americans to play the extra period with 10 men.
Spain took control after the dismissal, dominating possession and repeatedly testing Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who produced several outstanding saves to keep his side in the contest.
The Europeans thought they had found the breakthrough just before the 100th minute when Nico Williams Jr. put the ball into the net. However, the goal was ruled out after a foul by Mikel Merino on Nicolás Otamendi was identified in the build-up.
Spain eventually found the winner in the 106th minute through substitute Ferran Torres. His shot took a deflection before beating Martínez, giving the forward his first goal of the tournament and securing victory for his side.
The triumph earned Spain their first World Cup title since their historic success in South Africa in 2010, completing an impressive campaign that included victories over Austria, Portugal, Belgium, France and Argentina.
Argentina’s journey to the final had featured wins over Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland and England, but they fell just short of lifting the trophy after a spirited performance.
The final could also represent the end of Lionel Messi’s World Cup career. The 39-year-old Argentine captain, regarded as one of football’s greatest players, has yet to announce whether he will continue playing international football.
This edition of the FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, was the first in the tournament’s history to feature an expanded field of 48 national teams.