World Cup 2026: Spain defeats Argentina and claims a second star

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Emiliano Martinez, the only bright spot for Argentina

Making a video summary of this match would look like a compilation of Spain’s finest moves in this World Cup, since Argentina showed nothing at all, absolutely nothing to claim to defend or even retain its title.

Within Lionel Scaloni’s squad, only Emiliano Martinez answered the call, multiplying saves—nine in total in this match. We will especially remember his stops on Pedri (76<sup>th</sup>), Cubarsi (77<sup>th</sup>), Aymeric Laporte (80<sup>th</sup>), Nico Williams (90+4) and also Lamine Yamal’s free kick one minute before the end of injury time (90+3).

Argentina spent the entire match without getting a single shot on target (2 attempted in extra time). Even Lionel Messi was unable to display his genius, despite being used to big moments. And the sending off of Enzo Fernandez (90+3) after another yellow card for a serious foul on Pau Cubarsi did not help the Albiceleste, left on their own until extra time.

Ferran Torres, Spain’s unexpected hero

Lamine Yamal, Mikel Merino and also Mikel Oyarzabal tried everything but without success, each in turn coming up against the immense Emiliano Martinez, who delivered his best match since the start of this World Cup.

Oyarzabal was rightfully taken off in the 62<sup>nd</sup> minute, replaced by Ferran Torres, the FC Barcelona striker who would transform himself into the hero of La Roja tonight. From a ball headed across by Nico Williams, the Blaugrana would finally beat Emiliano Martinez (106<sup>th</sup>), opening the score and, at the same time, offering the second star to Spain, thus ending Argentina’s reign after their 2022 title.

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