World Cup Final: Leverkusen’s Palacios an unused sub as Spain claim second World Cup crown | OneFootball

In a final that was short on attacking quality but high on intensity, fouls and yellow cards, Spain eventually found the decisive breakthrough through Ferran Torres in the 106th minute. The forward’s extra-time strike proved enough to secure La Roja’s second World Cup title, while Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Exequiel Palacios remained an unused substitute for Argentina.

The opening 45 minutes offered few clear-cut opportunities. Spain controlled possession and looked the more threatening side, while Argentina failed to register a single shot on target. However, despite their dominance, La Roja were unable to find a way past the Albiceleste defence as the sides went into the interval level.

The pattern continued after the break, with the contest repeatedly interrupted by fouls and cautions, particularly from Argentina. Spain continued to probe but struggled to break down a disciplined defensive display. Their task was made easier deep into stoppage time when Enzo Fernández was shown a second yellow card, reducing Argentina to 10 men before the match headed into extra time.

Spain thought they had finally broken the deadlock in the first period of extra time when Nico Williams found the net, only for the goal to be ruled out after Mikel Merino was adjudged to have fouled Nicolás Otamendi in the build-up.

With Argentina retreating deeper and seemingly content to take the final to penalties, Spain finally found the winner just one minute into the second half of extra time. Williams rose at the back post to head the ball back across goal, where Ferran Torres arrived to emphatically fire home from close range and spark jubilant celebrations.

The solitary goal proved decisive as Spain held on to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory, lifting the World Cup trophy for the second time in their history.