Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
The World Cup final ended with Spain lifting the trophy after defeating Argentina near New York on Sunday. The result completed the 104-match tournament, although Donald Trump’s conduct during the trophy ceremony shifted attention away from the champions.
Donald Trump remained on the winners’ platform as Spain celebrated before FIFA president Gianni Infantino guided him away. Rodrigo Hernandez Cascante waited calmly for Spain’s moment with the trophy.
The final followed fresh debate surrounding a Jude Bellingham incident reframed by new Valentin Barco footage from England’s semifinal loss to Argentina.
Argentina offered little attacking threat against Spain, recording no shots during regulation time and no attempts on target across 120 minutes. Their defensive setup restricted space, but it also left Lionel Messi isolated and Spain largely untroubled.
Enzo Fernandez was sent off, while Lionel Messi asked referee Slavko Vincic to dismiss Marc Cucurella after the Spain defender placed a hand near his mouth. Argentina’s frustration continued after the final whistle as several players lost their composure.
Donald Trump later called the tournament “one of the greatest events of any kind ever held”. The official FIFA World Cup website provides full tournament coverage.
The expanded competition featured 104 matches, compared with 64 at the 2022 World Cup. Cape Verde’s campaign, Belgium’s late comeback against Senegal and England’s 6-4 third-place win over France supplied some of its most memorable moments.
Spain ultimately finished as champions, while Argentina’s passive final performance produced a disappointing end to a demanding tournament.