Ferran Torres scores the decisive goal in extra time as Spain defeat Lionel Messi’s Argentina 1-0 to lift their second World Cup trophy
New Delhi: Spain clinched their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.
Spain dominated possession throughout the match but struggled to break down Argentina’s resilient defence. The turning point came in stoppage time when Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for a challenge on Pau Cubarsi, leaving the South Americans with 10 men.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez produced a string of crucial saves to keep Argentina in the contest, while Lionel Messi found little space as Spain controlled the tempo with their trademark passing game.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 106th minute of extra time. Substitute Nico Williams delivered a clever knock-back for fellow substitute Ferran Torres, who fired the ball into the roof of the net to seal Spain’s historic victory.
Spain’s players celebrated wildly after the final whistle, while a tearful Messi collected his runners-up medal, in what could be the 39-year-old’s final World Cup appearance..
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni admitted Spain deserved the victory, saying his side had been outplayed despite their remarkable run to the final.
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