APTOPIX Argentina Spain WCup Soccer
Spain fans gather for a rally on the eve of the World Cup final soccer match in New York's Times Square, Saturday, July 18, 2026
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Spain substitute Ferran Torres scored in the 106th minute to give his team a 1-0 win over defending champion Argentina in the World Cup final. Spain was absolutely dominant in terms of possession and shot attempts. Lionel Messi and Argentina found a way to hang on and force extra time — but barely. And in the opening moment of the second 15-minute period of extra time, Torres pounced on a bouncing ball in the box and used his left foot to bury a shot just under the crossbar and into the back of the net.
Expect goals in the World Cup final, as history suggests. In 22 previous finals, the winning team has averaged 2.6 goals, while the losing team has averaged 1.1. The last two finals have been high-scoring, with 12 goals combined. If Argentina wins, coach Lionel Scaloni would be the second to lead two World Cup victories. Lionel Messi will be the oldest field player in a final at 39. Spain could set a record with two teenagers in the lineup. Spain is also on a 37-match unbeaten streak, tied with Italy for the longest in European history.
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