Spain win World Cup final as Ferran Torres’ extra-time goal sinks Argentina

By Simon Peach, Press Association Chief Football Writer, New York New Jersey

Super sub Ferran Torres fired Spain to their second men’s World Cup triumph as what may be Lionel Messi’s last dance ended in 10-man Argentina falling to a meek 1-0 extra-time defeat.

Billed as a box-office final between the South American and European champions, what transpired was a defence versus attack exercise as the holders showed spirit but precious little else.

Faltering Argentina failed to muster a shot across 90 minutes and only Emiliano Martinez’s heroics kept Spain at bay, with the goalkeeper preventing teenager Lamine Yamal from scoring a match-winning free-kick.

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The reigning champions lost Enzo Fernandez to a brainless second yellow card just before extra time, with Lionel Scaloni’s lacklustre side continuing to stumble against Luis de la Fuente’s classy, ball-playing outfit.

Spain kept knocking at the door and substitute Torres eventually slammed home at the start of the second period of extra time.

Argentina were unable to eke out an equaliser having been a pale imitation of the team that broke England’s hearts in Wednesday’s semi-final.

Tempers frayed as the final whistle sparked Spanish celebrations and surely called time on 39-year-old star Messi’s last World Cup match.