Wildfire smoke and storms threw the World Cup final into disarray before a ball was even kicked, but it was a red card for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez and a Ferran Torres strike that ultimately decided the narrative as Spain took the lead against Argentina in extra time.
Spain’s pre-match training session was cancelled due to storms, while fans and members of the media struggled to get into MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The pre-match closing ceremonies ran over, delaying kick-off. Weather advisories had been issued as wildfire smoke caused chaos across New York.
“Ferran Torres scores in extra time as 10-man Argentina trail Spain in chaotic World Cup final”
When the game finally began, neither side could find a breakthrough in regular time. Argentina, aiming to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup, and Spain, seeking a second title in 16 years after dominating France in the semi-final, fought a tense battle that ended 0-0 after 90 minutes.
Before extra time, Argentina were reduced to ten men when Enzo Fernandez was sent off for two bookable offences. Lisandro Martinez had earlier limped off with an injury, adding to Manchester United’s concerns. The half-time show also drew criticism, with Wayne Rooney issuing a damning verdict.
Just 38 seconds into the second period of extra time, Spain seized the lead. A deep ball was floated to the far post, where Nico Williams knocked it down for Ferran Torres to score. Torres’s goal put Spain within minutes of winning their second World Cup, leaving Argentina’s dream of retention in the balance.
The chaotic build-up threatened to overshadow the game itself, but on the pitch the drama delivered. With ten minutes left in extra time, Spain held the advantage in a final that had already been defined by delays, smoke, and a red card.