Spain wins 2026 World Cup as Norway emerges surprise fan favourite

Spain defeated Argentina 1‑0 after extra time in the final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, securing the nation's second World Cup title. Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in the 106th minute, prompting a massive celebration among the 80,000‑plus spectators and back home in Spain, where children like Ángela Rodríguez García and Pablo Torrijos Suárez marked the event with street parties.

FIFA released the final tournament rankings: Spain 1, Argentina 2, England 3, France 4 and Norway 5. Norway’s run to the quarter‑finals, highlighted by Erling Haaland’s goals, captured global attention and sparked a wave of fan enthusiasm, with the “Viking Row” chant becoming a viral phenomenon.

American comedian Jon Stewart joked about the halftime show, noting the contrast between Spanish‑speaking players and an English‑language entertainment segment featuring international pop acts. The tournament, the first with 48 teams, concluded with Spain’s triumph and Norway’s unexpected popularity surge.