Argentina’s hopes of retaining the FIFA World Cup came to a heartbreaking end after Enzo Fernandez’s red card proved decisive in a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.
The Chelsea midfielder was sent off late in normal time after receiving a second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi, leaving Lionel Scaloni’s side to play the entire extra-time period with 10 men.
Spain had dominated possession and created the better chances throughout the match but were repeatedly denied by Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who produced a series of impressive saves to keep the score level.
However, Argentina’s numerical disadvantage eventually took its toll. In the second half of extra time, substitute Nico Williams headed the ball into the path of fellow substitute Ferran Torres, who calmly slotted home the decisive goal to hand Spain their second FIFA World Cup title.
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The defeat marked a disappointing end to what could be Lionel Messi’s final World Cup appearance. The Argentina captain struggled to influence the game as Spain’s midfield, led by Rodri and Fabian Ruiz, controlled proceedings from start to finish.
Argentina’s frustrations continued after the final whistle, with Leandro Paredes shown a red card following a confrontation, while emotions spilled over as players from both teams clashed during Spain’s celebrations.
For Spain, the victory crowned an outstanding tournament under head coach Luis de la Fuente, with Torres emerging as the hero after coming off the bench to score the goal that secured a historic triumph.
While Martinez’s heroics kept Argentina in contention for much of the contest, Fernandez’s dismissal shifted the balance firmly in Spain’s favour, allowing La Roja to finally break through and lift the World Cup trophy.
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