Spain reached the summit of world football once again, sixteen years later. The Spanish national team were crowned FIFA World Cup champions after defeating Argentina 1-0 in the 2026 World Cup final, played in New York. Luis de la Fuente’s side were the better team throughout, dominating possession, creating the clearest chances and being denied only by poor finishing and a string of saves from Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez. The decisive moment came in extra time, when Ferran Torres scored in the 106th minute to secure Spain’s second World Cup title, following their triumph in South Africa in 2010, sparking historic celebrations in Palma and across Mallorca.

Spain impose their style until the decisive goal

Spain controlled the match from the opening whistle. Rodri and Fabián Ruiz dominated midfield, while Dani Olmo was one of the most influential players between the lines, creating several of the team’s most dangerous attacks. Argentina held firm thanks to their goalkeeper and an ultra-defensive approach, repeatedly breaking up play to disrupt Spain’s rhythm.

The introduction of Ferran Torres, Pedri and Nico Williams in the second half gave Spain fresh attacking impetus. Williams transformed the game with his pace and dribbling, forcing Argentina deeper and deeper into their own half. Just when the match seemed destined for penalties, Ferran Torres struck in extra time with the goal that settled the final and confirmed a title Spain had fully deserved for their dominance and positive approach.

Palma takes to the streets to celebrate a second World Cup

Spain World Cup champions 2026

Photo: Palma City Council.

The 2026 World Cup final turned Palma into a city-wide football celebration. Thousands of supporters watched the match on the giant screens installed across the city, particularly in the Son Fusteret fan zone, which attracted around 20,000 people and reached full capacity several hours before kick-off. Bars, terraces and entertainment venues were also packed as fans gathered to witness a historic occasion.

Ferran Torres’s goal sparked scenes of jubilation among supporters, who celebrated with hugs, chants and waving Spanish flags. After the final whistle, the celebrations spilled onto the streets of Palma, with vehicle convoys, car horns and spontaneous gatherings across the city, creating a night that will long be remembered in Spanish football history.

The Argentine community also experienced the final from the fan zone set up at Son Moix, where almost 2,000 supporters watched the match in a festive atmosphere marked by mutual respect between both sets of fans. The celebrations continued well into the early hours and spread to numerous towns across Mallorca, where hundreds of people took to the streets to celebrate Spain’s second World Cup triumph.