World Cup final heads to extra time after Spain, Argentina play to 0-0

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina ended regulation time at 0-0 on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, sending the showpiece match to extra time in front of more than 80,000 spectators.espn+1

Spain Dominate but Can't Break Through

Spain controlled the tempo for much of the match, holding the majority of possession and creating the better chances across 90 minutes, but Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez and a resolute defensive line kept the European champions at bay. Argentina, by contrast, struggled to mount attacks and failed to register a single shot in the first half as Spain's pressing game suffocated their build-up play.

Argentina's task grew more difficult when defender Lisandro Martínez, widely regarded as one of the tournament's best defenders, was forced off before halftime with an injury and replaced by 38-year-old Nicolás Otamendi. The setback deprived coach Lionel Scaloni of a key figure in the center of his defense at a critical stage of the match.reddit

Fernández Ejection Leaves Argentina Down to 10

The defining moment of regulation came in the 83rd minute, when midfielder Enzo Fernández — one of Argentina's standout performers throughout the tournament — received a yellow card for a foul. Already booked, the Chelsea midfielder was shown a second yellow and sent off, reducing Argentina to 10 men for the remainder of the contest. Reddit users and commentators described the foul as reckless, with one noting, "You can't just be throwing a foot in when you're already on a yellow card".reddit+2

Fernández had been a pivotal figure in Argentina's run to the final, scoring a late equalizer in the semifinal victory over England.chelseafc+1

A Final Steeped in History

The match represents a clash of soccer dynasties. Spain, who won their only World Cup in 2010, reached the final after beating France 2-0 in the semifinals. Argentina, seeking a fourth title after triumphs in 1978, 1986, and 2022, advanced with a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over England. The two nations were originally scheduled to meet in the 2026 Finalissima in March, but that match was canceled.foxsports+4

As extra time began, Argentina faced a daunting challenge: defending their 2022 crown with 10 men, without one of their best defenders, and against a Spanish side that had conceded just once in seven matches entering the final.espn