Spain defeated Argentina 1–0 in the 2026 World Cup final, and Lionel Messi was emphatically contained in what was most certainly his last-ever World Cup appearance—but it was not entirely his fault.
Argentina was vastly outplayed by a superior Spain that dominated the title match from start to finish. La Roja lived up to its status as favorite and deservedly dethroned La Albiceleste to win its second-ever World Cup title. Although extra time was required, Luis de la Fuente’s side categorically outclassed Argentina, and the scoreline could’ve easily been more lopsided.
