Copa Independent | Doing it their way: lessons from the final curtain in New York

In partnership with

The Independent

·20 July 2026

Copa Independent | Doing it their way: lessons from the final curtain in New York

Miguel Delaney and Richard Jolly reflect on Spain winning a second World Cup, with Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner highlighting Spain’s depth and collective style under Luis De la Fuente. They lament Argentina’s negative, ill-disciplined performance which lacked any shot on goal until the 117th minute, a red card for Enzo Fernandez and post-match flare-ups—calling it a frustrating final, and a sad possible last World Cup game for Lionel Messi.

The pair also assess the tournament as good rather than great, discuss England’s missed opportunity under Tuchel and the value of federation-rooted coaches, and condemn chaotic World Cup organisation in the US, including Secret Service delays linked to Donald Trump, celebrity-centric presentation, and a halftime show no-one asked for.