Spain's World Cup victory under manager Luis de la Fuente has captivated fans worldwide. De la Fuente hailed his players for fulfilling what he described as “their destiny” by winning a second World Cup final against 10-man Argentina. The reigning champions were second best throughout but it took until the second period of extra time for Spain to find the breakthrough from the substitute, Ferran Torres.
Nico Williams saw his goal disallowed in the first half of extra time, while Enzo Fernández became the sixth player – and third from Argentina – to be sent off in a World Cup final after the Chelsea midfielder was shown a second yellow card in the 93rd minute. Argentina had chances to equalise after Torres put Spain ahead but having come to their rescue so many times at this tournament Lionel Messi could not inspire them to become the first team to retain their title since Brazil in 1962.
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Key Moments in the Spain World Cup Final
His failure to add to his tally of eight goals in what is expected to be the 39-year-old’s last World Cup means that Kylian Mbappé won a second Golden Boot of his career having finished with 10 goals. But it was Spain’s miserly defence that proved decisive in the end, with De la Fuente’s side only conceding one goal in their eight matches as Unai Simón won the best goalkeeper award and teenage defender Pau Cubarsí was named as young player of the tournament.
Individual Awards and Team Performance
The Manchester City midfielder, Rodri, was awarded the Golden Ball. “It was written, and we deserve it,” said a delighted De la Fuente, who has led Spain to European titles at under-19, under-21 and senior level before this triumph. “This team and this wonderful fanbase deserve everything. We had a date with destiny and we wanted to make it count.
“The players have asked me what we have left to win. Together we’ve figured out that it’s the next match in September [against England in the Nations League] because this team is tireless.” But while Álex Baena and Marc Cucurella are set to follow through on their promise to have tattoos to celebrate Spain’s triumph, the 65-year-old De la Fuente, who has now cemented his legacy, continues to inspire.
Comparison of Key Statistics: Spain vs Argentina World Cup Final
| Statistic | Spain | Argentina |
|---|---|---|
| Goals Scored | 1 | 0 |
| Shots on Target | 4 | 3 |
| Possession (%) | 58 | 42 |
| Red Cards | 0 | 1 |
| Goals Conceded in Tournament | 1 | 5 |
Key Takeaways from the Spain World Cup Triumph
- Defensive dominance: Spain conceded only one goal in eight matches.
- Golden Boot winner: Kylian Mbappé secured his second Golden Boot with 10 goals.
- Young talent shines: Teenager Pau Cubarsí named young player of the tournament.
- Rodri's Golden Ball: The Manchester City midfielder was awarded the top individual honor.
- Historic achievement: Spain won their second World Cup, matching their 2010 success.
FAQ
Who scored the winning goal in the Spain World Cup final?
Ferran Torres scored the winning goal for Spain in the second period of extra time against Argentina.
How many red cards were shown in the match?
One red card was shown, to Enzo Fernández of Argentina, making him the sixth player sent off in a World Cup final.
What award did Rodri win?
Rodri won the Golden Ball award for the best player of the tournament.
Who won the Golden Boot in this World Cup?
Kylian Mbappé won the Golden Boot with 10 goals, his second career Golden Boot.