Adedokun Waliyu 
Ferran Torres scored an extra-time winner as Spain defeated holders Argentina 1-0 to win the World Cup, shattering Lionel Messi’s dream of ending his international career with another World Cup triumph.
Barcelona striker Ferran Torres fired home a powerful finish in the 106th minute to cap a dominant performance by Spain against an Argentina side that failed to register a single shot on target throughout the 120 minutes.
A capacity crowd of 80,663, including United States President Donald Trump, watched the final as Argentina captain Lionel Messi sought to crown his remarkable career with a second World Cup title.
However, the 39-year-old Messi, likely playing in his final World Cup match, was largely kept quiet as Spain controlled possession from the opening stages. Argentina resorted to a series of cynical fouls in an attempt to disrupt Spain’s rhythm.
Their frustrations eventually boiled over when midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off in injury time for a reckless challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi.
Despite Spain’s dominance, Argentina appeared destined to force the match into a penalty shootout as they continued to defend resolutely.
Spain finally found the breakthrough after Nico Williams had a goal controversially ruled out in extra time. Pedro Porro delivered a lofted cross to the far post, where Williams headed the ball into the path of Torres, who smashed home the decisive goal to secure Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title, adding to their historic triumph in 2010.
Argentina’s frustration had been evident throughout the match. In the 15th minute, Alexis Mac Allister escaped a yellow card after a dangerous studs-up challenge on Dani Olmo. Moments later, Spain’s Alex Baena elbowed Messi in the back, but the incident also went unpunished.
Argentina continued to commit several rough challenges, with Nicolas Tagliafico fortunate not to receive a booking after a clumsy tackle on Lamine Yamal.
Lopsided Contest
Spain continued to dominate possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances during the first half. Mikel Oyarzabal’s low effort was comfortably gathered by Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Referee Slavko Vincic eventually cautioned Lisandro Martinez for bringing down Oyarzabal. The defender was later substituted because of injury and replaced by veteran Nicolas Otamendi.
A lengthy halftime entertainment show featuring Madonna, Shakira and Justin Bieber lasted 27 minutes but had little effect on Spain’s momentum.
Spain intensified the pressure in the second half, with coach Luis de la Fuente introducing Pedri and Ferran Torres to increase the attacking threat.
Lamine Yamal created a headed opportunity for Torres, but Martinez produced another fine save. Pedri and Pau Cubarsi also tested the Argentine goalkeeper from long range as Spain continued to pile on the pressure.
Substitutes Nico Williams and Mikel Merino added fresh energy to Spain’s attack. Fernandez received a booking for dissent before later being dismissed, while Martinez continued to deny Spain with several outstanding saves.
Yamal almost won the match in stoppage time with a curling free-kick that Martinez brilliantly pushed away.
Spain’s relentless pressure continued in extra time. Williams thought he had opened the scoring, but his goal was disallowed for a marginal foul on Otamendi.
The decisive moment finally arrived in the 106th minute when Torres struck the winning goal. Argentina launched one final attack in search of an equaliser, but Spain defended resolutely to seal a memorable victory and lift their second FIFA World Cup trophy.
