Spain has been crowned world champion, securing victory in the football World Cup final with a 1-0 win in extra time. Going into the additional period, the score was level at 0-0.
The match began with an early opportunity for Spain when Lamine Yamal received a through ball from Dani Olmo, but his attempt was saved by Martínez. Argentina attempted to gain stability through possession, yet they were unable to generate any significant offensive pressure. Despite Spain holding considerably more ball possession during the first half, they were unable to find any breakthroughs in the Argentinian defense, and the half ended scoreless.
Following a nearly 30-minute half-time break, which featured an opulent show with superstars like Shakira and Madonna, Spain intensified its pressure in the second half. Meanwhile, Argentina continued to remain defensive. Though the Spanish players utilized their wingers to try and break down the Argentinian defense, these efforts were largely fruitless. Argentina registered few shots on goal during long stretches of play and remained offensively dull, trying perhaps to compensate with several brutal tackles and fouls. Following a yellow-red card for Enzo Fernández in the 93rd minute, the South Americans entered extra time with one player missing.
In the 96th minute, Nico Williams managed to put the ball into the Argentinian net; however, the goal was disallowed because Merino was believed to have committed a foul earlier. Team mate Ferran Torres then scored the highly deserved winning goal in the 106th minute. Despite the late comeback efforts in the final five minutes-during which the Argentinians suddenly created numerous golden chances-it was not enough to change the outcome.
