In a remarkable World Cup final, Spain triumphed over Argentina in extra time, with substitute Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute.
Torres converted from close range after Nico Williams kept the play alive with a deep cross. Though Torres netted a second goal, it was ruled offside, yet Spain’s dominance was evident throughout the match.
This final resembled a one-sided boxing match, where the referee would have intervened long before the end, given Spain’s overwhelming control.
Argentina had to wait until extra time for their first shot on goal, barely managing to threaten Spain’s defense. Spain commanded possession while Argentina struggled to mount any meaningful offense, with little activity in Spain’s final third during the first half.
Despite Spain’s inability to breach goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez for most of the match, Torres’ goal effectively concluded the contest.
SPAIN
0:18
Madrid erupts as Spain celebrates their World Cup victory.
Manager Rating (out of 10)
Luis de la Fuente 8 – The coach witnessed his team controlling the match but was dissatisfied with their offensive performance, leading him to make multiple substitutions in the second half. His pivotal decision to bring on Torres proved to be the game-changer, while his defense effectively limited Argentina’s attacking opportunities.
Player Ratings (1-10; 10 = best, 5 = average)
GK Unai Simón 6 – The goalkeeper’s most notable moment came when he quickly came off his line to thwart Messi early in the match but otherwise had minimal involvement, with no saves required.
RB Pedro Porro 7 – He effectively partnered with Lamine Yamal on the right flank, contributing to the attack, while remaining solid defensively.
CB Pau Cubarsí 8 – The young defender, just 19 years old, played with remarkable confidence, delivering a key assist and earning the Young Player of the Tournament award.
CB Aymeric Laporte 7 – His superb positioning limited the need for defensive action, and he even attempted to contribute offensively with a header.
LB Marc Cucurella 7 – Spending most of the match in Argentina’s half, he created opportunities, although he struggled with execution at times.
DM Rodri 8 – The Manchester City midfielder was instrumental in controlling the game’s tempo and defending the back line, showcasing his stylish gameplay throughout.
DM Fabián Ruiz 5 – His contributions were minimal, and he struggled to leave a mark on the match before being substituted.
CM Lamine Yamal 5 – The young prodigy had a quiet match, failing to capitalize on early chances but did show glimpses of his talent in the closing moments.
CM Dani Olmo 6 – He contributed actively to the team, appearing dangerous at times but also struggled to consistently threaten.
CM Álex Baena 5 – With limited impact on the game, he was replaced after an unproductive performance.
CF Mikel Oyarzabal 6 – His involvement was limited as he struggled to break through Argentina’s defense but did attempt a couple of shots.
Substitutes (players introduced after second half of extra time = no rating)
CF Ferran Torres (Oyarzabal, 62) 6 – The match-winner who nearly netted twice, he made his presence felt upon entering the game.
DM Pedri (Ruiz, 62) 7 – A positive substitution, Pedri created chances and tested Martínez.
CM Mikel Merino (Olmo, 75) 6 – Although he didn’t make a significant impact, he was close to scoring with a header.
CM Nico Williams (Baena, 75) 8 – A pivotal player late in the game, he brought energy to the attack and assisted in the crucial moment leading to Torres’ goal.
DM Martín Zubimendi (Rodri, 99) 6 – While not influential, he helped maintain Spain’s composure in the closing minutes.
CB Eric García (Laporte, 99) 6 – Came on to solidify the defense during the final moments of the match.
ARGENTINA
1:19
Argentina fans were left heartbroken after the loss to Spain in the World Cup final.
Manager Rating (out of 10)
Lionel Scaloni 3 – Argentina’s approach centered on conceding possession to Spain, leaving Scaloni with few options when Spain increased their offensive pressure. His substitutions failed to make a positive impact, with his team unable to create substantial chances.
Player Ratings (1-10; 10 = best, 5 = average)
GK Emiliano Martínez 9 – A standout player for Argentina, Martínez made 11 critical saves, successfully keeping Spain at bay until Torres’ goal, which he had little chance of stopping.
RB Gonzalo Montiel 5 – While he managed to contain Spain’s attacking threat for the most part, it was unclear whether his performance was more a reflection of his efforts or Baena’s struggles.
CB Cristian Romero 7 – Romero provided an assertive defensive presence, adjusting well alongside Martínez while continuing to apply pressure.
CB Lisandro Martínez 6 – Delivered his best efforts as the first player to receive a yellow card for a tactical foul before being substituted due to injury.
LB Nicolás Tagliafico 7 – He dealt well with Yamal’s threat for the majority of the match, minimizing his impact significantly.
RM Rodrigo De Paul 4 – Struggled to find his influence throughout the match, leaving more gaps than he covered, resulting in his substitution.
CM Enzo Fernández 2 – His contribution was minimal and he failed to integrate into the game, receiving a red card late for an unnecessary foul.
CM Alexis Mac Allister 4 – Uncomfortable in his role, he avoided punishment during the match but struggled to engage effectively.
LM Nico González 3 – Had a disappointing first half and was substituted at halftime as a result.
CF Lionel Messi 3 – Struggled throughout the match to make a significant impact, with very few touches early on.
CF Julián Álvarez 3 – His frustrated performance resulted in careless fouls when attempting to regain possession.
Substitutes (players introduced after second half of extra time = no rating)
CB Nicolas Otamendi (Martinez, 44) 5 – Stepped in for the injured Lisandro Martínez, contributing experience but limited influence.
CM Leandro Paredes (Gonzalez, 45) 4 – His energetic attempts did not benefit the team as he received a yellow card for his aggressive tackles.
RB Nahuel Molina (Montiel, 58) 4 – Struggled defensively against Williams’ speed and agility.
CB Facundo Medina (Romero, 70) 3 – Failed to make a notable impact and contributed to the errors leading up to the match-winning goal.
RM Giuliano Simeone (De Paul, 70) 5 – While his presence was felt slightly, he failed to create significant threats.
CB Marcos Senesi (Alvarez, 102) N/A – Provided energy but could not alter the course of the match positively.