Argentina finish second at the World Cup

It was a bitter end in New York for Argentina and Lautaro Martínez as Spain won the 2026 FIFA World Cup final thanks to Ferran Torres’ goal early in the second half of extra time. El Toro did not feature at the New York/New Jersey Stadium, bringing an end to an impressive tournament for the Inter captain, who played a key role in the Albiceleste's journey to the final with three goals and one assist. Lautaro returns home with a silver medal to add to the World Cup winners' medal he was awarded in Qatar in 2022.

Right from kick-off, it was clear which team had the most momentum. Spain dominated possession and dictated the tempo, while Argentina focused on closing down space and cutting off La Roja's passes. Despite being so dominant on the ball, Spain struggled to create clear chances. As time went on, it became increasingly difficult for Argentina due to fatigue from their demanding semi-final against England, with Lisandro Martínez and Cristian Romero both forced off with injuries. At the end of regular time, Emiliano Martínez produced a sensational save to deny Lamine Yamal from a dangerous free-kick, ensuring the match went to extra time despite Argentina being reduced to ten men following Enzo Fernández's second yellow card. Spain continued to press and found the breakthrough in the 106th minute, with Ferran Torres firing home after Nico Williams headed the ball into his path. La Selección continued to suffer, and another strike from Torres was ruled out for being marginally offside. Argentina showed great determination in the closing stages and came agonisingly close to an equaliser, first denied by an incredible goal-line intervention from Pau Cubarsí and then by Giuliano Simeone's failure to convert a great chance from close range. Spain's 1-0 victory secured their second World Cup title, following their triumph in 2010.

Lautaro never got the chance to come on as the game took an unexpected course, bringing his World Cup campaign to an end. For the first time since 1982, no Inter player featured in a World Cup final, although the Nerazzurri were still represented on the biggest stage. Lautaro leaves the tournament with a silver medal and plenty of unforgettable memories, having contributed three vital goals and an assist in Argentina's journey to the final.