Spain are world champions. España es campeona del mundo.
It took extra time, but Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 to claim their second World Cup title, leaving Lionel Messi heartbroken while La Roja's Barcelona contingent celebrated a famous victory.
Ferran Torres' extra-time goal proved to be the difference in a tense, tactical final. Argentina arrived with a clear plan to frustrate Lamine Yamal and Spain's attacking stars, turning the contest into a hard-fought battle rather than the free-flowing spectacle many had anticipated.
Here are the player ratings from the World Cup final.
Starting XI
Unai Simon - 7
Was crucial with his sweeping to deny Lionel Messi a clear one-on-one opportunity. Aside from that, he had little to do until the closing stages of extra time, when Argentina finally mounted sustained pressure and forced him into action.
Pedro Porro - 7.5
Delivered the cross that sparked the decisive goal, causing panic in the Argentina defence. Looked slightly shaky at times defensively but recovered well and produced a solid overall performance.
Pau Cubarsi - 8.5
The centre-back showed he’s a Rolls Royce. Only the second player on record to complete 100-plus passes in a World Cup final, showing composure and class behind his years. Particularly, following the assault from Enzo Fernandez.
Aymeric Laporte - 7.5
Has been a superstar at the back throughout the tournament, and he was once again as Spain recorded a seventh clean sheet in eight games. Had a headed chance saved by Emi Martinez. Hopefully he is a future Barcelona signing.
Marc Cucurella - 7
Capped off an excellent World Cup with a strong performance against Argentina’s right sided attackers. The new Real Madrid man was decent going forward too.
Rodri - 8
Superb from start to coming off in extra time. Dictated the game and kept Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez very quiet.
Fabian Ruiz - 7
Worked hard in the engine room but Spain carried more of threat when he was replaced by Pedri.
Dani Olmo - 7
Was a constant threat from the middle and their chances largely came from good and probing passes from Barcelona’s Slim Shady (can't be the only one that thinks they look alike).
Lamine Yamal - 7
Was doubled up on, and at times even triple-marked, so his impact was naturally limited. He had a few good moments, but overall it wasn't his best performance. Still, European champion and World champion at 19 years old. Not a bad way to spend your teenage years.
Mikel Oyazabal - 6.5
Was marked and tackled out of the game. Can only remember the one shot from a long way out.
Alex Baena - 6.5
Was rightly substituted after making a similar impact to Oyarzabal. Showed flashes of quality with a few neat passes but struggled to impose himself on the game.
Substitutes
Pedri (on 62 mins) - 7
Came on to bring energy into the side, which he sure did. He was able to keep the fluidity in the attacking movement, and regulalry searched out the attackers in the wide areas.
Ferran Torres (62 mins) - 8.5
Injected pace and creativity into Spain’s attack after coming on, and his quick reactions in extra time proved decisive as he fired home the goal that delivered the ultimate prize for his country. He will now be remembered forever as one of Spain’s World Cup heroes.
Nico Williams (75 mins) - 8
Had a goal ruled out, came close with a header and consistently caused Argentina's defence problems throughout the match. His clever header back across goal provided the assist for the winning goal.
Mikel Merino (75 mins) - 7.5
Proved to be more of an aerial threat and the most I’ve ever seen him get him on the ball. Always looked like a threat in the box.
Eric Garcia (99 mins) - 6.5
Not much contribution but provided freshness to the defence after they knew the Argies were coming.
Martin Zubimendi (99 mins) - 6.5
Didn’t get on the ball but broke up play a few times. Not enough time to make a proper impact.
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