FIFA World Cup 2026 Final In Photos: Spain Triumphs Amid Trump Boos And Postmatch Brawl

Spain were crowned 2026 FIFA World Cup champions on Sunday, defeating defending titleholders Argentina by a solitary goal in extra time at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored the winner in the 105th minute after a goalless 98 minutes, handing Spain its second World Cup title and first since 2010. Captain Rodri lifted the trophy as Argentina's Lionel Messi, playing what is widely believed to be his final World Cup, was held quiet by a resolute Spanish defence. Argentina finished the match with ten men after Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card.

The occasion doubled as a global entertainment spectacle. FIFA staged its first ever World Cup final halftime show, featuring Shakira, Madonna, BTS, Justin Bieber and Burna Boy, with a Ted Lasso themed cameo from Jason Sudeikis. Jennifer Hudson performed the American anthem, while Spanish Brass and singer Maria Becerra performed the Spanish and Argentine anthems respectively. Tom Cruise, Post Malone and Robbie Williams featured in the star studded closing ceremony.

President Donald Trump attended alongside First Lady Melania Trump and son Barron, watching from a glass enclosed suite with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Trump was met with loud boos when shown on the stadium screens moments after Hudson's anthem, with reports noting ambient crowd noise rose from around 78 to 84 decibels amid the jeering. He was booed again as he walked onto the pitch for the trophy presentation, and a further awkward moment followed when he positioned himself for the trophy lift photograph with Spain's players before Infantino appeared to steer him away from the celebration.

The match itself ended in controversy. Moments after the final whistle, Argentina defender Nahuel Molina was seen slapping Rodri, sparking a wider brawl. Midfielder Leandro Paredes grabbed Spain's Eric Garcia by the neck, while Spanish player Gavi also became involved before Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni separated the players. Photographs of the scuffle went viral within hours, overshadowing Spain's celebrations and standing in stark contrast to the unity themed messaging of the tournament's closing ceremony held only hours earlier.