Spain and Argentina forced into extra time after goalless World Cup final

Spain and Argentina played out a goalless draw in regular time of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, sending the match into extra time with two 15-minute periods. If the deadlock persists, the winner will be decided by a penalty shootout.

The match was marked by tactical caution from both sides, with Lionel Messi leading Argentina’s attacks and Lamine Yamal posing a threat for Spain. Spain dominated possession and created more chances throughout the game.

Lamine Yamal nearly put Spain ahead in the opening minutes, but Argentina’s defense cleared the ball at the last moment. Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón also denied a clear chance for Argentina by beating Messi to the ball.

Argentina suffered a setback when defender Lisandro Martínez was forced off with an injury, replaced by veteran Nicolás Otamendi.

In stoppage time, Argentina’s midfielder Enzo Fernández was shown a red card for a strong challenge on a Spanish player, leaving Argentina to play extra time with ten men.

Spain starting lineup

Goalkeeper: Unai Simón.

Defense: Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella.

Midfield: Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, Dani Olmo.

Attack: Mikel Oyarzabal, Lamine Yamal, Álex Baena.

Argentina starting lineup

Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez.

Defense: Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico.

Midfield: Rodrigo De Paul, Nicolás González, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister.

Attack: Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez.

Argentina entered the final aiming to defend their World Cup title and secure a fourth championship, which would make them the first team to win back-to-back titles since Brazil in 1962. Spain, meanwhile, are seeking their second World Cup trophy after their 2010 triumph in South Africa.

Spain reached the final after a strong campaign under coach Luis de la Fuente, relying on a balanced team and solid defense, and defeating France 2-0 in the semi-finals to extend their unbeaten run.

Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, advanced to the final on the back of a potent attack, having scored at least two goals in every match of the tournament. Coach Lionel Scaloni is looking to add another world title to his achievements.

This final is historic as it marks the first-ever World Cup final meeting between Spain and Argentina. Their only previous World Cup encounter was in 1966, when Argentina won 2-1. This edition is also the first World Cup to feature 48 teams.