World Cup 2026: how Spain won their second title
The 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, was the first with 48 teams and 104 matches. It ended on 19 July 2026 with Spain crowned world champions for the second time in their history, after 2010.
The final: Spain 1-0 Argentina
The final was played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, near New York. Spain faced Argentina, the defending champions from 2022. It was 0-0 after 90 minutes and was settled in extra time by a Ferran Torres goal in the 106th minute.
Spain's victory ended Lionel Messi's dream of winning back-to-back World Cups.
Spain's route to the title
In the knockout rounds, Spain beat Austria, Portugal, Belgium and France before overcoming Argentina in the final. Spain conceded just one goal in eight matches, a historic defensive record for a world champion.
Semi-finals and third place
| Match | Result |
|---|---|
| Semi-final | Spain 2-0 France |
| Semi-final | Argentina 2-1 England |
| Third place | England 6-4 France |
| Final | Spain 1-0 Argentina (after extra time) |
The third-place match was a spectacle, with 10 goals. It was England's best World Cup finish since their 1966 title.
Individual awards
| Award | Winner |
|---|---|
| Golden Boot (top scorer) | Kylian Mbappé (France) |
| Golden Glove (best goalkeeper) | Unai Simón (Spain) |
| Best Young Player | Pau Cubarsí (Spain) |
| Fair Play Award | Netherlands |
What about Africa?
Africa's standout team was once again Morocco, who reached the quarter-finals, confirming their place among the continent's strongest sides. In 2030, Morocco will play at home as one of the World Cup's co-hosts.
What changed with 48 teams?
The new format had 12 groups of 4 teams and an extra knockout round (the round of 32). More teams from Africa, Asia and CONCACAF were able to take part, opening the door to countries that had never played at a World Cup before.
Want to know what's next? Read our guide to the 2030 World Cup.