Spain beat Argentina in extra time to win FIFA World Cup as Lionel Messi's dream farewell ends

FOOTBALL NEWS - Spain were crowned FIFA World Cup champions after Ferran Torres struck the winning goal in extra time to secure a hard fought 1 to 0 victory over defending champions Argentina in Sunday's final.

Torres fired home in the 106th minute after Nico Williams headed Pedro Porro's cross into his path, giving Spain a deserved victory following a dominant performance.

It marked Spain's second World Cup triumph, adding to their historic 2010 success.

Despite a crowd of more than 80 000 at MetLife Stadium, including United States President Donald Trump, Argentina struggled to make an impact in attack.

Lionel Messi, playing what is widely expected to be his final World Cup match, was kept quiet throughout as Argentina failed to register a single shot on target during 120 minutes of football.

The closing ceremony. Photo: FIFA | Facebook

Spain controlled possession and created the better chances from the opening stages, while Argentina relied on physical challenges to disrupt the match.

Alexis Mac Allister, Nicolas Tagliafico and Lisandro Martinez were all fortunate to avoid harsher punishment during a series of robust tackles.

The South Americans finished the match with 10 men after Enzo Fernandez was sent off in injury time for a dangerous challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi.

Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez produced a string of outstanding saves to keep his side in the contest, denying Torres, Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Cubarsi on several occasions. Nico Williams also had a goal ruled out in extra time before Torres finally broke the deadlock with a powerful finish.

Argentina pushed forward in the closing stages in search of an equaliser, but Spain defended resolutely to secure the victory and lift the World Cup trophy once again.

For Argentina, the defeat marked a disappointing end to their title defence and denied Messi the opportunity to end his remarkable international career with another World Cup winner's medal.

Spain, meanwhile, celebrated a memorable triumph after producing one of the tournament's standout performances.

Spain celebrate their victory. Photo: FIFA | Facebook