Ferran Torres scored an extra-time winner as Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 in a heated FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey.
Torres struck from close range in the 106th minute after Nico Williams headed Pedro Porro’s cross into his path. The victory secured Spain’s second men’s World Cup title.
“It was a goal scored by 47 million people,” Torres said, referring to Spain’s population.
The Barcelona forward entered the match in the 62nd minute as a replacement for Mikel Oyarzabal.
Argentina were reduced to 10 players in the 90th minute when Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card for a reckless foul on Pau Cubarsí. Referee Slavko Vincic dismissed the Chelsea midfielder following the challenge.
Spain controlled most of the match and created several scoring opportunities but were repeatedly denied by Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez. He made 11 saves, the most ever recorded by a goalkeeper in a World Cup final.
Argentina did not register their first shot until the 117th minute, when Lionel Messi had an effort blocked.
Messi became the first man to start three World Cup finals and, at 39, the oldest outfield player to start the deciding match. He finished the tournament with eight goals, two behind France forward Kylian Mbappé in the race for the Golden Boot.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has not confirmed his international future but may have played his final World Cup match. He has scored 21 World Cup goals, one fewer than all-time leading scorer Mbappé.
Tensions continued after the final whistle as players from both teams clashed on the field. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was subsequently shown a red card.
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