Spain claims second World Cup title
Spain has secured their second World Cup title, defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time. The decisive goal came from Barcelona winger Ferran Torres in the 106th minute of a match marked by Argentina’s defensive tactics and a late red card. The victory concluded a tournament that Fifa president Gianni Infantino described as “the most incredible event in human history.”
The match saw Spain dominate possession and attempts on goal, registering 20 shots compared to Argentina’s two. Argentina’s strategy, which involved numerous fouls and attempts to disrupt Spain’s rhythm, ultimately backfired when Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card, reducing his team to 10 men for the extra-time period. This dismissal occurred shortly before extra time began, further complicating Argentina’s efforts.
The winning goal originated from a cross by Pedro Porro, which Nico Williams kept in play at the back post. Torres then capitalised on the opportunity, firing the ball past Argentina’s goalkeeper Emi Martínez. Martínez had previously made several saves to keep his team in contention, despite what some observers described as cynical tactics from Argentina.
Match marred by delays and pitch conditions
The final was not without its unusual occurrences and criticisms. The kick-off was delayed by six minutes due to extensive pre-game entertainment, which included a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner by Jennifer Hudson and a performance of the Fifa anthem, Desire, by Robbie Williams. A speech by Tom Cruise, intended to be stirring, also contributed to the pre-match festivities.
Further delays impacted the game, most notably a 27-minute and 20-second half-time interval. This extended break, significantly longer than the standard 15 minutes stipulated by the game’s laws, was attributed to a half-time show featuring performers such as Madonna, Justin Bieber, and Ted Lasso. This marked the first time pop stars were permitted on the pitch during a World Cup final, a decision that some suggested might have suited Argentina’s disruptive tactics.
Concerns were also raised about the playing surface at the New York New Jersey Stadium. Weeks prior to the final, Brazil star Vinicius Jr had commented on the pitch’s tendency to dry out quickly due to weather and heat, leading to a slower game. During the final, former England captain Wayne Rooney criticised the half-time show, while Ian Wright on ITV described the pitch as “ridiculous, poor, terrible,” and “bobbly and dry,” conditions not conducive to fluid attacking play.
The 3pm ET kick-off time in New Jersey, corresponding to 8pm BST, was reportedly chosen with the European television market in mind, alongside local and South American audiences. However, playing in the afternoon’s hottest part, with temperatures reaching 27C / 80.6F, may have negatively affected the players, particularly in the exposed outdoor stadium, unlike other venues with retractable roofs and air conditioning.
Post-match altercations and Argentina’s exit
Following the final whistle, the match concluded with contentious scenes. Argentina’s Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes were involved in aggressive reactions, leading to a brief scuffle among players. Paredes, in particular, shoved Spain’s Gavi to the turf and was subsequently sent off. This incident occurred after the game had officially ended, adding to the tension of the final moments.
Argentina’s tournament ended without a shot on goal until the 115th minute, when Lionel Messi, making what was described as his final World Cup appearance, struck the ball towards Mikel Merino. Despite their efforts, Argentina ultimately failed to find an equaliser, concluding their campaign with a defeat in the final. The match itself, despite the pre-game and half-time spectacle, was described by some as dull, with Argentina’s approach contributing to a lack of attacking play until late in the game.
The event drew a significant number of notable attendees, including Donald Trump, the Canadian prime minister Mark Carney, Mexico’s president Claudia Sheinbaum, and King Felipe of Spain, among others. Fifa also released an 11-page list of celebrities present, many of whom were also scheduled to perform as part of the extensive entertainment surrounding the final.
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Source: theguardian.com