JUST IN: Spain edge Argentina in extra time to win second World Cup title

Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup champions for the second time after defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time in Sunday’s final at the New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Ferran Torres emerged the hero for La Roja, scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute to settle a fiercely contested encounter and hand Spain their first World Cup triumph since 2010.

Spain dominated possession and controlled much of the final but struggled to find a breakthrough against a resilient Argentine side until Torres finally broke the deadlock in extra time.

Argentina’s task became even more difficult after being reduced to 10 men, allowing Spain to pile on sustained pressure in search of the winner.

Lionel Messi, appearing in what many expect to be his final World Cup, was largely contained by Spain’s disciplined defence. The Argentine captain dropped deep in the closing stages to orchestrate attacks as his side desperately searched for an equaliser.

Argentina came close to forcing penalties in the dying minutes when Giuliano Simeone found space inside the penalty area, but his effort sailed over the crossbar. Moments later, Messi created another opening for Simeone, whose dangerous cross was diverted behind for a corner.

Messi also registered Argentina’s first shot on target late in the contest, but his powerful strike struck Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino in the face, forcing a brief stoppage for treatment.

Despite five minutes of added time, Argentina could not find a way past goalkeeper Unai Simón, who remained composed to preserve Spain’s narrow advantage.

The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters as La Roja secured a second star on their jersey, with Torres’ extra-time strike proving enough to seal football’s biggest prize.

The victory marks another historic milestone for Spanish football, while Argentina’s reign as world champions came to an end after a determined but ultimately unsuccessful title defence.