Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Spain vs Argentina finished goalless after 90 minutes in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at New York/New Jersey Stadium on July 19, despite Spain controlling almost every major statistic. Ferran Torres later scored in the 106th minute to secure a 1-0 extra-time victory for Spain.
The regulation-time numbers showed Argentina surviving constant pressure without creating a shot of their own. Enzo Fernandez was then dismissed in the 93rd minute, forcing Argentina to play the entire extra-time period with 10 players.
The dramatic decider also ended with a Spain triumph and Donald Trump trophy ceremony controversy.
Spain Control Possession and Territory
Spain registered 15 shots before extra time, with nine testing Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Argentina recorded no attempts and no shots on target, leaving Lionel Messi isolated from the match.
Spain controlled 65 percent possession and attempted 618 passes, compared with Argentina’s 326. A 91 percent passing accuracy allowed Spain to move the ball quickly, change the point of attack and force Argentina into a deep defensive shape.
Argentina completed 81 percent of their passes but struggled to progress beyond Spain’s press. The difference showed that possession was not simply being held in harmless areas, with Spain repeatedly advancing into attacking positions.
The 9-1 corner count further showed how often Spain forced Argentina towards their own goal. Spain were caught offside twice, while Argentina were flagged once.
Enzo Fernandez Red Card Changes Extra Time
Argentina committed 19 fouls and received three yellow cards during regulation, compared with Spain’s 13 fouls and no bookings. Enzo Fernandez’s second yellow card in stoppage time left Argentina without a central midfielder for the additional 30 minutes.
The numerical advantage allowed Spain to stretch Argentina across the pitch and create wider passing lanes. Pedro Porro eventually crossed towards Nico Williams, whose header set up Ferran Torres for the winning finish.
The official FIFA World Cup final report recorded final totals of 20-2 for attempts and 12-0 for shots on target. Argentina’s defensive plan delayed Spain, but the lack of attacking threat and late red card made sustained resistance increasingly difficult.
