Dr Fadi Maayah
Curtin University, Australia
Jordan Daily - Spain have officially climbed back to the summit of world football, defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup and confirm what many suspected throughout the tournament: La Roja are now the best team on the planet. Ferran Torres emerged as the hero, scoring the winning goal in extra time to deliver Spain's second World Cup crown.
What makes this victory even more remarkable is that the final unfolded almost exactly as many tactical observers expected. Prior to the match, I argued that Spain's superiority in possession, midfield control and defensive organisation would allow them to dictate the game. While I predicted a 2-1 Spanish victory, the reality was arguably even more emphatic. Spain completely controlled the contest from start to finish, restricting Lionel Messi's Argentina to almost no attacking influence and demonstrating why they have become the benchmark for modern possession-based football.
Before the final, Spain’s strongest advantage was their midfield superiority. Rodri, Fabián Ruiz and Dani Olmo had controlled matches throughout the tournament through their technical quality, composure and positional intelligence. Against Argentina, they delivered another masterclass. Spain dominated possession, dictated the tempo and denied Argentina the space to counterattack or bring Messi into dangerous areas. It was a clear example of how elite possession can serve as both an attacking force and a defensive shield.
The statistics reinforced Spain’s dominance. Argentina did not register a shot in normal time and spent long periods chasing the game as Spain circulated the ball with patience and precision. Post-match reports also emphasised Spain’s territorial control, with Argentina unable to build sustained attacking momentum. For a side featuring Messi and seeking to defend a World Cup title, those numbers were remarkable and highlighted Spain’s organisation, discipline and technical quality.
Spain's journey to the title was built on the same foundations. They progressed confidently through the tournament, eliminating Austria, Portugal and Belgium before producing arguably their finest performance against France in the semi-final. France entered the tournament as one of the favourites, boasting extraordinary talent across the pitch. Yet Spain defeated them 2-0 while controlling possession, territory and the overall rhythm of the match. That victory was not merely a win; it was a statement that Spain were ready to reclaim football's greatest prize.
The final followed a similar pattern. Argentina defended courageously and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced a series of outstanding saves that kept the score level. However, Spain's relentless pressure eventually told. After Enzo Fernández was sent off late in normal time, Spain increased the intensity even further. The breakthrough finally arrived in the 105th minute when substitute Ferran Torres found the back of the net, sparking celebrations among Spanish supporters around the world.
For Argentina, defeat marks the end of an extraordinary era. Messi leaves the World Cup stage having already cemented his place among the greatest players in football history. Argentina's run to a second consecutive final demonstrates the strength of Lionel Scaloni's team and their remarkable competitive spirit.
For Spain, however, this tournament belongs entirely to them. European champions in 2024 and world champions in 2026, they have assembled a team that blends technical quality, tactical sophistication and youthful brilliance. Led by captain Rodri and inspired by stars such as Lamine Yamal, Spain have not simply won the World Cup; they have redefined what international football excellence looks like.
The prediction before the match was that Spain's control would prove decisive.
The reality was even more convincing.
Argentina may have had Lionel Messi, one of football's greatest players. Spain, however, had the better team, the better structure and the better plan.
The kings of Europe have conquered the world
