NEW JERSEY, USA — Spain have been crowned FIFA World Cup champions for the second time after defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in a dramatic final that went into extra time.
The victory at the New York New Jersey Stadium marked Spain’s return to the top of world football 16 years after their historic 2010 triumph in South Africa.
Spain secured the title after a tightly contested encounter against an Argentina side seeking to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup crown.
The Spanish team, led by coach Luis de la Fuente, completed a memorable tournament campaign that saw them overcome some of the world’s strongest football nations before defeating Lionel Messi’s successors as world champions in the final.
The result means Spain now join the group of nations with multiple World Cup titles, having previously lifted the trophy in 2010 when Andrés Iniesta scored the decisive goal against the Netherlands in extra time.
The 2026 final was also attended by U.S. President Donald Trump, who presented the World Cup trophy to Spain following the victory.
“President Donald J. Trump presents the World Cup Trophy to Spain, the 2026 FIFA World Cup Champions!” the White House said in a post shared on X.
The United States hosted the final as part of the first-ever expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup, co-hosted with Canada and Mexico.
Shakira, Burna Boy and Ghetto Kids dazzle
Beyond football, the final attracted global attention for its historic halftime entertainment show, the first Super Bowl-style performance in World Cup history.
Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian singer Burna Boy headlined the halftime show, performing the tournament anthem Dai Dai, with Uganda’s Triplets Ghetto Kids joining the international stars on stage.
The Kampala-based dance group, known for their viral performances and work supporting vulnerable children through dance, thanked FIFA, Shakira, Burna Boy and their fans after the performance.
“Performing at the World Cup Halftime Show with Shakira was an experience we will carry with us for a lifetime,” the group said.
Ugandan singer Eddy Kenzo also praised the dancers, describing their appearance as a moment when the world witnessed Uganda’s creative talent.
“A dream born in the streets of Kampala can inspire billions across the globe,” Kenzo said.
Spain’s victory brings an end to Argentina’s three-year reign as world champions following their 2022 triumph in Qatar, while establishing a new era for a Spanish generation that has blended technical football traditions with emerging young talent.
For Spain, the 2026 World Cup will be remembered as the tournament that restored La Roja to football’s highest throne and delivered a second golden star above the national crest.