Spain won their second World Cup title on Sunday after Ferran Torres scored the only goal in a 1-0 extra-time victory over 10-man Argentina.
The European champions controlled most of the game at MetLife Stadium but found it hard to break down the determined defending champions.
Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez produced several fine saves to keep Spain out. However, the game turned in second-half stoppage time when midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card and was sent off after a reckless tackle on Pau Cubarsi.
Extra time followed the same pattern, with Spain pushing forward while Argentina sat deep and defended.
The winning goal finally arrived early in the second half of extra time. Substitute Ferran Torres calmly finished after a brilliant knock-back from Nico Williams to give Spain the lead.
Luis de la Fuente’s side allowed only one goal in seven matches on their run to the final, shutting down opponents with their smooth possession-based style.
Lionel Messi’s Argentina had fought hard to reach the final. They survived the knockout rounds by coming from the brink against Egypt before recovering from a goal behind to beat England in the semi-finals.
