Spain wins 2026 World Cup 1-0 over Argentina as Trump-Sánchez handshake and halftime concert dominate the narrative
Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time at MetLife Stadium, with Donald Trump and Pedro Sánchez sharing an awkward handshake and a first-ever halftime concert dividing opinion.
The final whistle
Spain secured its second World Cup title on Sunday 19 July, defeating Argentina 1-0 after extra time at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The lone goal, scored in the additional period, ended Argentina's hopes of back-to-back championships after their 2022 triumph in Qatar. Unai Simón, the Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper, was named the tournament's best keeper, following in the footsteps of Iker Casillas, who guarded the net for Spain's 2010 victory.
- Spain faces Argentina in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.
- First-ever World Cup halftime concert, featuring Madonna, Justin Bieber, BTS, Shakira and Burna Boy, extends the break to 27 minutes.
- Spain defeats Argentina 1-0 after extra time, securing its second World Cup title.
- King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez receive the Spanish team at Zarzuela Palace in Madrid.
Political theatre in the stands
US President Donald Trump attended the final and, at the final whistle, was obliged to shake hands with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, a vocal critic whom Trump had threatened two weeks earlier with cutting all trade with Spain. Argentine President Javier Milei, a Trump ally, stayed home citing superstition. The handshake, captured by cameras, became an instant symbol of the tournament's political undercurrents, which also included a red card annulled earlier in the competition after Trump reportedly called the FIFA president.
cut all trade with the country
A halftime show that split the crowd
For the first time, FIFA staged a halftime concert during the final. Madonna opened the 11-minute set alongside Brazilian legends Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, followed by Justin Bieber, BTS, Shakira and Burna Boy. The spectacle extended the break from 15 to 27 minutes to accommodate stage assembly and removal. Many football purists criticised the move as a "fade, américanisation" and a monetisation of the sport in the style of the Super Bowl, while others praised the entertainment value.
Royal reception and Iranian praise
On Monday 20 July, King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Sánchez received the Spanish squad at Zarzuela Palace in Madrid. The king told the players they had "won for all of Spain." Meanwhile, Iranian authorities issued a statement congratulating Spain, linking the victory to the country's "defense of the Palestinian people" and claiming it brought joy to those opposed to Israel and the United States worldwide.
Now that you have won, you have won for all of Spain.
Argentina's bitter exit
Argentina, champions in 2022, were widely criticised for their conduct after the final whistle. Commentators noted a stark contrast between the team's exuberant celebrations four years earlier and their inability to accept defeat gracefully, with reports of poor sportsmanship on the pitch and in the aftermath.
