Ferran Torres' goal in the early moments of the second period of extra-time proved decisive as Spain won their second World Cup by beating 10-man Argentina 1-0 after a thrilling encounter at the MetLife Stadium on Sunday.
The match changed complexion in second-half stoppage-time when Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off for a second yellow card after a reckless tackle on Spain's Pau Cubarsi. Fernandez's dismissal left Argentina with 10 men and a mountain to climb, but they managed to hold out against the European champions for the remainder of the regular 90 minutes.
Luis de la Fuente's Spain dominated the match, but struggled to find a breakthrough against the streetwise defending champions. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made a string of saves to deny Spain, but the visitors' pressure eventually told in extra-time.
Lionel Messi's Argentina had battled their way through the knockout rounds, coming back from the dead against Egypt and recovering from a goal down to beat England in the semi-finals. However, their resolve was broken when Fernandez was sent off, and Spain's possession-based game eventually paid off in extra-time.
The breakthrough goal came when substitute Ferran Torres finished crisply following a brilliant knock-back by Nico Williams. The goal marked a decisive moment in the match and sparked jubilation among the Spanish players and staff.
Spain's victory marked their second World Cup title, following their first triumph in 2010. The team's slick possession game and defensive solidity proved decisive in their bid for the trophy.
The Spanish team's achievement is all the more impressive given the challenges they faced during the tournament. De la Fuente's side conceded just one goal in seven matches on their way to the final, a testament to their defensive solidity.
The World Cup final will be remembered for years to come as one of the most thrilling and closely contested matches in the tournament's history. The victory is a fitting conclusion to a tournament that has seen plenty of drama and excitement.
With their World Cup triumph, Spain will now look to build on their success and continue to compete at the highest level in international football. The team will return home to a hero's welcome, with fans eagerly anticipating their next move.
Source: Yahoo Sports
