In a tense and high-quality final in New Jersey, Spain defeated Argentina after extra time to win the FIFA World Cup for the second time in their history, ending Argentina’s recent dominance of the tournament.
kabul 24: Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the match in extra time, securing the title for La Roja. Reacting sharply to a loose ball inside the penalty area, Torres struck a powerful close-range shot that flew past Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez and into the net.
The goal, coming after more than 100 minutes of locked competition, finally broke the deadlock in a fiercely contested final.Luis de la Fuente’s Spain started the brighter, controlling possession and looking to exploit spaces between Argentina’s well-organized defensive lines.
The first clear chance arrived in the 5th minute when Lamine Yamal combined with Dani Olmo and forced Martínez into a sharp save. Yamal threatened again shortly afterward following a precise pass from Rodri, but Argentina’s defenders cleared the danger.Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina relied on quick counter-attacks led by Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez.
However, their efforts were repeatedly thwarted by excellent goalkeeping from Unai Simón, who made several timely interventions, rushing off his line to snuff out dangerous attacks.
Spain continued to dictate the rhythm through midfield maestro Rodri. Players like Álex Baena, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Marc Cucurella found space on the left flank, with Cucurella frequently surging forward.
As the first half progressed, the match became increasingly physical. Players had to contend not only with tough challenges but also with a dry, uneven pitch and high temperatures. Referee Slavko Vinčić allowed play to continue after a strong tackle by Nicolás Tagliafico on Yamal, but later booked Lisandro Martínez for a foul on Oyarzabal during a Spanish counter.
Martínez was substituted before halftime due to injury, with Nicolás Otamendi replacing him.Spain finished the first half strongly. Oyarzabal tested Martínez again, and a powerful strike from Cucurella narrowly missed the target.
Argentina created few clear threats beyond isolated moments involving Messi and Álvarez, leaving the final goalless at the break.The second half followed a similar pattern. Spain maintained control while Argentina pressed aggressively and relied on physicality.
Scaloni introduced Leandro Paredes early, adding more intensity to midfield, though Paredes was quickly booked for a foul on Rodri.Spain created several promising opportunities: Baena tried his luck from distance, Yamal’s free-kick hit the wall, and Olmo forced a spectacular save from Martínez after his shot took a late deflection.
The deadlock persisted until extra time, when Torres delivered the decisive moment.Spain’s victory marks a new chapter, ending Argentina’s hold on the world title and crowning a deserving champion after a thrilling final.
