Spain’s World Cup final player ratings as Ferran Torres seals 1-0 win over Argentina | OneFootball

Spain claimed the World Cup at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, as Ferran Torres settled a 1-0 final against Argentina with a fierce left-footer on their 20th attempt, the 12th on target.

El Periódico Mediterráneo notes that Spain had 65% possession and outshot Argentina, who managed only two efforts, both in extra time. None were on target. Unai Simón did not need a save with his hands and has seven clean sheets in eight.

Rodri dictated until withdrawn, completing 101 of 105 passes at 95% and screening the defence. Pau Cubarsí, unfazed, hit 58 of 59 in the first half and made a decisive extra time intervention to prevent 1-1.

Pedro Porro, linking with Lamine Yamal, attacked the space behind Nahuel Molina, and Nico Williams’ cunning there created the decisive opening. Aymeric Laporte was authoritative, while Marc Cucurella defended steadily.

Fabián Ruiz’s early stray passes hurt his impact. Lamine Yamal led for shots with four and completed five of nine dribbles, yet lacked clarity against Nicolás Tagliafico. Dani Olmo knitted attacks smartly.

Álex Baena acted as a fourth midfielder but delivered only one accurate cross from seven, and Mikel Oyárzabal’s movement outweighed his finishing. Pedri replaced Fabián and drove Spain on.

Torres came on for Oyárzabal to run the line. Williams, on for Baena, had a strike ruled out. Mikel Merino threatened with a header from a Williams centre, and Eric García debuted in extra time for Laporte.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo