The Times of India
Elections 2026Sports / The Times of India
Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, ending Argentina's reign. Lionel Messi's future remains his personal decision, according to coach Lionel Scaloni. Spain completed an unbeaten tournament, conceding only one goal throughout their campaign. This victory marked Spain's first World Cup win since their triumph in 2010.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir will board the flight from London having won just one match on a white-ball tour which also includes suffering a T20I whitewash at the hands of Ireland. Shubman Gill is yet to win a series since he took over the captaincy from Rohit last October.
Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in extra time. They became the fourth team to win without trailing and the first to concede just one goal. Ferran Torres scored the decisive winning goal in the 106th minute of the match. Spain's journey included a surprising draw and several hard-fought victories throughout the tournament.
Messi, head bowed, hands on his hips, watched 19-year-old Lamine Yamal embrace Torres after the winning goal. Moments later, with tears running down his cheeks, he collected his runners-up medal while Spain celebrated amid confetti and fireworks.
Spains 2026 World Cup triumph delivered a historic financial reward, with each player reportedly set to receive around $883,000 from the teams winners bonus. FIFA awarded the Spanish federation a record $51 million prize after their 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina. The expanded tournament prize fund saw record payments distributed across all participating nations.
Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni expressed deep sadness after their World Cup final loss to Spain. He cited unexpected injuries and immense player weariness as contributing factors to the defeat. Scaloni is now contemplating his future with the national team after his contract expires. He plans to discuss his decision with Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia soon. Building another successful team again presents a significant challenge for the coach.
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Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time. Youngster Lamine Yamal shared a memorable moment with Lionel Messi on the pitch. The Spanish team completed a dominant performance throughout the entire match. This victory marked Spain's second time lifting the prestigious World Cup trophy.
Messis World Cup final frustration sparked controversy after he appealed for action against Marc Cucurellas mouth-covering exchange during Argentinas defeat to Spain. While no punishment followed, pundits criticised the reaction as unsportsmanlike. Spain ultimately prevailed through Ferran Torres extra-time winner, ending Argentinas title defence and leaving Messis final World Cup appearance marked by disappointment.
Spain secured their second World Cup title by defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time. US President Donald Trump stood with the Spanish players during the trophy presentation ceremony. Boos were heard around the stadium as Trump and Infantino walked onto the field. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute of the match. Trump had previously intervened in a red card controversy during the tournament.
England dominated the third ODI against India at Lord's, amassing a record 387/3, led by a huge opening partnership between Jacob Bethell and Ben Duckett. India's bowlers, missing Jasprit Bumrah, struggled with discipline and conceded many extras. Poor middle-over planning further exposed India's bowling vulnerabilities, raising concerns for their 2027 ODI World Cup preparations.
Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, etching his name in history. He became the second substitute to score a World Cup final winner, matching a feat from 2014. Spain controlled possession and created numerous chances throughout the match. The victory ended Argentina's reign as defending world champions.
Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time for Spain's World Cup victory. He admitted disbelief after his decisive strike secured the historic championship. Torres dedicated his crucial goal to the entire Spanish population of forty-seven million. Spain's disciplined performance concluded an unbeaten tournament campaign for the team. This triumph marked Spain's second FIFA World Cup title after their 2010 win.
Spain's 2026 FIFA World Cup celebrations were marred by chaotic post-match scenes after Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was sent off following a mass confrontation after the final whistle. The defending champions' frustrations boiled over after their 1-0 extra-time defeat, with Paredes dismissed for his role in the altercation as pundits Gary Neville and Alan Shearer condemned Argentina's conduct.
Spain's triumph was built not on moments of brilliance alone but on collective superiority. Luis de la Fuente's side controlled possession, dictated territory and suffocated every avenue Argentina attempted to explore. World Cup finals are often remembered for drama, controversy or moments of individual inspiration. This one will be remembered for something far rarer - complete domination. Spain didn't just beat the defending champions. They made them disappear.
Kylian Mbapp made FIFA World Cup history by becoming the first player to win consecutive Golden Boots, finishing the 2026 tournament with 10 goals and four assists. The France captain beat Lionel Messi in a dramatic race after his third-place playoff brace, while also becoming the men's all-time World Cup leading goalscorer with 22 career goals.
Spain secured their second World Cup title after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final. Lionel Messi's quest for consecutive titles ended in disappointment following a 0-1 extra-time loss. The Argentine Football Association shared an emotional tribute to their captain after the match. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute of the contest. This defeat concluded a significant era for Argentinian football history.
Rodri was named the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball winner after inspiring Spain to a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final. The Manchester City midfielder dominated the midfield battle, helping neutralise Lionel Messi and control the game's tempo. His consistent performances throughout the tournament earned FIFA's top individual honour ahead of Messi, Kylian Mbapp and Jude Bellingham.
Spain celebrated a glorious achievement as they secured their second World Cup title with a narrow 1-0 victory over Argentina, courtesy of Ferran Torres' significant second-half goal. This win highlighted Spain's astonishing unbeaten run of 38 matches, surpassing Italy's long-standing record. Lionel Messi concluded his illustrious international career, showcasing stellar stats throughout the tournament that will be remembered in football history.
Spain secured the 2026 FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in the final. Rodri earned the Golden Ball for his midfield dominance throughout the tournament. Goalkeeper Unai Simon received the Golden Glove for his exceptional defensive performance. Teenage defender Pau Cubarsi was named FIFA Young Player of the Year. France captain Kylian Mbappe claimed the Golden Boot with ten goals.
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Spain clinched their second World Cup title with an unprecedented defensive display, allowing only one goal throughout the tournament. This remarkable solidity provided the foundation for their attackers to flourish. Unai Simon, the standout goalkeeper, secured the Golden Glove for his remarkable saves. Spain's tactical discipline not only showcased their strength but also established a new standard for international football defenses.
Spain achieved their second World Cup title after Ferran Torres scored a late goal. The substitute's decisive strike came in extra time against defending champions Argentina. Torres's goal broke Argentina's stubborn defense after a dominant Spanish performance. This victory denied Lionel Messi a chance to retain the World Cup crown. Spain also became the first nation to hold both men's and women's World Cup titles.
Spain secured a dramatic FIFA World Cup victory over Argentina. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, ending the match 1-0. Argentina played with ten men after Enzo Fernandez received a red card. Lionel Messi's final World Cup appearance concluded without a trophy. Spain celebrated their second World Cup title after a long wait.
Argentina faced extra time with ten players after Enzo Fernandez received a red card. Spain dominated possession and shots but could not score against Emiliano Martinez. The goalkeeper made a record ten saves to keep Argentina in the match. This historic goalless final entered extra time after ninety minutes. Both teams sought to win the prestigious World Cup trophy.
A controversial tackle by Nicolas Tagliafico in the World Cup final sparked debate. Many fans questioned why the Argentina defender escaped a booking for his challenge. This incident brought back memories of previous refereeing controversies surrounding Argentina. Spain dominated possession and controlled the tempo during the first half. The match remained goalless at halftime with few shots recorded.
Spain controlled the World Cup final's first half, denying Argentina any scoring opportunities. Argentina failed to register a single shot on goal before halftime, a historical anomaly. The match remained goalless at the interval, reflecting Spain's tactical superiority. This marked the ninth World Cup final to feature a scoreless first half. The tournament concluded with Spain seeking their second title and Argentina defending theirs.
United States President Donald Trump attended the FIFA World Cup 2026 final match. He arrived via Marine One and sat with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Trump expressed his belief that the tournament solidified America as a football nation. He also publicly urged FIFA to consider another World Cup bid for the United States. The president declined to predict the final match outcome.
Lamine Yamal achieved a historic football milestone before the World Cup final. He became the first teenager to play in both a Euro and a World Cup final. Yamal was instrumental in Spain's journey to the championship match. The young player's performance has been a key factor for his team. Spain faced Argentina in the title clash for the coveted trophy.
Lionel Messi captained Argentina in his third World Cup final. He previously led his team in the 2014 and 2022 finals. Messi aims to win consecutive World Cup titles for Argentina. Argentina reached the final after a comeback win against England. Spain advanced after defeating France in their semifinal match.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will award a record $51 million to the champions. Runners-up will receive $34 million, and the total prize pool reaches $871 million. Every participating nation is guaranteed at least $12.5 million for qualifying and preparation. This expanded prize money reflects FIFA's increased financial commitment to the tournament. Prize money goes to national federations, not directly to the players.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli achieved their twenty-first ODI century partnership. This milestone placed them second in all-time ODI history for century stands. The duo also became the first Indian pair to play 400 international matches together. Rohit Sharma scored a remarkable 138 runs during the chase. England had earlier posted a formidable 387 for three at Lord's.
Rohit Sharma achieved a significant milestone by scoring his eighth ODI century in England. This remarkable century placed him ahead of Sachin Tendulkar on an elite all-time list. England posted a formidable 387/3, setting a challenging target for India. Sharma's innings helped India remain competitive in the series-deciding match. The Indian opener's performance silenced critics after a lean run.
Rohit Sharma achieved a historic ODI century at Lord's on Sunday. He became the oldest Indian to score an ODI hundred in the format. This remarkable innings came amidst scrutiny regarding his ODI future. England posted a massive 387 runs, setting a daunting target for India. Sharma's century marked his eighth ODI hundred in England.
India and England created ODI history at Lord's by becoming the first teams to both register 100-plus opening partnerships in the same match at the venue. Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell added 192 for England before Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill replied with 147. Gill's dismissal for 77 ended the record stand during India's chase of 388.
Joe Root achieved a remarkable feat in the July 2026 ODI series against India. He remained unbeaten throughout the series, scoring 249 runs without being dismissed. This performance made him the first England batter to achieve six consecutive ODI half-centuries. Root surpassed previous records for most runs in a bilateral ODI series without losing his wicket. His consistent batting guided England to strong performances in all three matches.
PV Sindhu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for congratulating her after becoming the first Indian to win the Japan Open. Recalling their meetings after the Tokyo Olympics, she said his wishes mean the world to her and praised his work ethic and support for Indian sport. Sindhu ended her two-year title drought by defeating Akane Yamaguchi in the final.
Gurnoor Brar recorded the most expensive ODI bowling figures at Lord's. His spell of 0 for 97 entered India's record books for expensive spells. England's top order dominated an inexperienced Indian bowling attack. Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell built a strong opening partnership. England's total of 387 for 3 became the highest ODI score at Lord's.
Thousands of Argentina fans filled New York's Times Square with flags, chants and blue-and-white jerseys ahead of Sunday's FIFA World Cup final against Spain at MetLife Stadium. Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, face reigning European champions Spain after both teams survived challenging routes to the final in the tournament's biggest-ever edition.
Joe Root achieved a historic milestone with six consecutive fifty-plus scores. He scored an unbeaten 74 off 49 balls at Lord's. England posted a strong 387 for 3 after batting first. Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell provided a solid opening partnership. Jos Buttler finished with a quick 41 not out.
Ravichandran Ashwin questioned India's decision to omit Kuldeep Yadav. The spinner was again left out of the side for the third ODI. This repeated exclusion could negatively impact his confidence and rhythm. India opted for a pace-heavy attack despite bowling absences. Kuldeep has now missed all ODIs and T20Is on the tour.
Young Indian footballers on the Reliance Football Development League's exposure trip to Japan visited the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, gaining a powerful lesson on the horrors of war and resilience. Coaches Israil Gurung and Praveen Kumar said the visit highlighted the importance of peace and showed how Japan rebuilt after devastation, inspiring players to overcome setbacks with determination.
Former England players question Thomas Tuchel's tactical choices in the World Cup semi-final. They believe his decisions denied the team a place in the final match. England secured third place after defeating France in an entertaining playoff game. Bukayo Saka returned to the starting lineup and scored a hat-trick. Despite the bronze medal, the campaign is not considered a success by some.
Dwayne Bravo and Chris Gayle delighted fans with a heartwarming reunion at Major League Cricket, where Bravo touched Gayle's feet and called him the Original GOAT. Later, Bravo's Los Angeles Knight Riders won their maiden MLC title, edging Washington Freedom by one run in a thrilling final after Shadley van Schalkwyk's brilliant last over sealed a dramatic victory.
England openers Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell achieved a record 192-run partnership against India. This stand became the highest opening partnership for England against India in ODI history. The duo also set a new record for the highest opening partnership ever at Lord's. India's Prasidh Krishna eventually dismissed Bethell for a well-played 91 runs. Bethell's impressive innings included eleven fours and two sixes.
Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazario predicts Spain will easily defeat Argentina in the World Cup final. He believes Spain's possession-based game will prove too much for Lionel Messi's team. Unbeaten Spain enters the championship match with a strong defensive record. Argentina seeks its fourth world title and aims to defend its crown. Ronaldo's prediction stems from Spain and France being his tournament favorites.
Kylian Mbappe became the FIFA World Cup's all-time leading scorer with 22 goals after scoring twice against England, overtaking Lionel Messi's 21. However, the France captain expects Messi to reclaim the record in Sunday's final against Spain. Despite the milestone and leading the Golden Boot race, Mbappe said he would have preferred playing in the World Cup final.

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