Spain lifted the 2026 World Cup trophy after beating Argentina 1-0 in the final on July 19, with Ferran Torres scoring in extra time. La Roja, managed by Luis de la Fuente, controlled the match and denied Argentina a second straight title. International media, including Argentine outlets, praised Spain’s performance while questioning Argentina’s harsh tactics in defeat.

What happened in the final?

The game, played at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, was a tale of two halves. Spain dominated with 62% possession and 15 shots, while Argentina barely created clear chances. Torres’ goal in the 106th minute came from a collective move that left Argentina’s defense exposed. The last official result was Spain 1-0 Argentina (2026-07-19), a stat that underscores La Roja’s strength throughout the tournament.

Argentine media like Clarín and Diario Olé acknowledged Spain’s superiority but praised their players’ effort. La Nación described how the albiceleste fought until the end, though Spain’s control was unmistakable. The final was overshadowed by clashes after the final whistle, with pushing between players from both sides.

Why is the global press backing Spain?

Coverage across the world was overwhelmingly positive. British outlets like The Telegraph ran a biting headline: "Football 1 - Criminals 0", criticizing Enzo Fernández, Leandro Paredes and Nicolás Otamendi. The Sun went so far as to say "no one is crying for Argentina", while France’s L’Équipe crowned Spain as "the new kings of world football".

In Italy, La Gazzetta dello Sport highlighted not just Torres’ goal but Spain’s consistency throughout the tournament. La Roja closed the World Cup on a four-game winning streak, including the final, with just one loss in their last five matches (4W-0D-1L, their most recent defeat to Argentina).

Reactions and controversies

Argentine media, while accepting Spain’s triumph, criticized the attitude of some players. Basketball legend Ginóbili said: "In Argentina we believe winning comes from guts and courage, but no: it comes from playing well". Argentina’s internationals asked their fans to "stop believing in nonsense", trying to make sense of the loss.

Spain’s manager Luis de la Fuente stayed above the fray: "I’d like to be remembered as a decent guy, that’s all". The 2026 World Cup final will be remembered for Spain’s football and the controversies that followed, especially on Argentina’s side.