The highly anticipated World Cup final between Argentina and Spain experienced a brief delay, kicking off six minutes behind schedule. The match was set to commence at 8pm BST (3pm ET) at the New York/New Jersey stadium, but began at 8:06pm BST instead.
The match was preceded by a performance from Robbie Williams, a rendition of the national anthem by Jennifer Hudson, an unusual pre-game address by actor Tom Cruise, and an energetic introduction from ring announcers Michael and Bruce Buffer.
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Additionally, there was a World Cup closing ceremony held 90 minutes before kickoff, featuring performances by Post Malone and streamer IShowSpeed. The trophy was brought onto the pitch by Spain’s 2010 World Cup hero Andreas Iniesta, Argentina’s 1978 champion Mario Kempes, tennis star Carlos Alcaraz, and Squid Game actress Hoyeon.
As excitement built for the final, Cruise took the stage to speak to the audience. “As we gather for one last chapter, let us celebrate a tournament that united the world. Let us celebrate each other. This is football. This is unity. This is greatness,” he proclaimed in an unexpected monologue.
The final is also set to feature an extended half-time show, with performances from Shakira and Madonna that may extend the intermission further. The presence of Donald Trump at the match led to increased security, with hundreds of journalists, entertainers, and volunteers queuing for up to three hours to gain entry to the stadium.
Like all matches in the World Cup, the final will include a three-minute hydration break roughly halfway through each half. The weather in New Jersey for the final is warm, with no air conditioning at the outdoor venue, unlike the semi-finals held in Dallas or Atlanta.
(Getty)
(Getty)
(AFP/Getty)
Ultimately, substitute Ferran Torres secured Spain’s second men’s World Cup victory after Argentina, led by what appeared to be a fading Lionel Messi, suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat in extra time.
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Promoted as a marquee matchup between the champions of South America and Europe, the match turned out to be more about defense, with the reigning champions showing heart but little offensive firepower.
Argentina struggled offensively, failing to register a single shot on goal during regulation time, while goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez heroically kept Spain from scoring, including a crucial save against Lamine Yamal‘s free-kick attempt.
Argentina’s night worsened with the ejection of Enzo Fernandez due to a reckless second yellow card just before extra time, as Lionel Scaloni’s lackluster squad succumbed to Luis de la Fuente’s skillful, ball-controlling side.
Spain continued to press, with substitute Torres scoring early in the second period of extra time. Argentina was unable to respond, showing a stark contrast to the team that had shocked England in the semi-finals.
Tempers flared as the final whistle blew, igniting celebrations among the Spanish players, likely marking the end of 39-year-old Messi’s World Cup career.