Torres fires Spain to World Cup glory, says winning goal belonged to 47 million Spaniards

Spain’s World Cup hero Ferran Torres has described his extra-time winner against Argentina as “a goal scored by 47 million people” after inspiring La Roja to a historic 1-0 victory in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium.

The Barcelona forward etched his name into Spanish football folklore with the decisive strike that secured Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title and dashed Lionel Messi’s hopes of leading Argentina to consecutive world crowns.

Spain produced a commanding display from start to finish, dictating the tempo with 65 per cent possession and unleashing 20 shots, while restricting the defending champions to just two attempts throughout the 120-minute encounter.

Argentina, however, remained in contention largely because of an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, whose 11 saves established a new FIFA World Cup final record.

Lionel Scaloni’s side suffered a major setback at the end of regulation time when midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off, leaving Argentina to contest the entire extra-time period with 10 men.

Spain eventually made their numerical advantage count as Torres struck the decisive goal, before Luis de la Fuente’s men held firm against a late Argentine rally to reclaim football’s biggest prize.

Reflecting on the defining moment of his career, Torres dedicated the goal to the Spanish people.

“It was a goal scored by 47 million people,” he said.

The Spanish forward also paid tribute to Argentina captain Lionel Messi, acknowledging the challenge of overcoming one of football’s greatest players.

“It is always difficult to win when Messi is on the other team,” he stressed.

Torres concluded his emotional reaction by expressing gratitude to God for the triumph.

“Thanks to God. God gives things to people who deserve it most,” he added.

Torres’ unforgettable strike will stand among the most iconic moments in Spain’s football history, delivering World Cup glory and ending Argentina’s bid to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.