Spain edges Argentina in tense final
Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final on Sunday, with Rodri captaining the side to victory. The match was played at a sold-out New York New Jersey Stadium, where Spanish fans erupted as the final whistle confirmed their nation's second World Cup title. The game saw a second-half brawl between players, though no red cards were issued.
For Lionel Messi, the match marked his likely final World Cup appearance. The Argentine star, who led his team to victory in 2022, was unable to repeat the feat. Argentine President Javier Milei attended the match, while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez celebrated with the team.
England takes third; Deschamps bids farewell
England claimed third place with a thrilling 6-4 win over France in the bronze medal match. The game also marked the end of Didier Deschamps' 14-year tenure as France manager. Kylian Mbappe became the tournament's all-time top scorer with 22 goals, netting in his final match under Deschamps.
France's defeat came despite Mbappe's tribute to the outgoing coach, whom he called a legend. The tournament was marred by reports of ghost ticket schemes that locked fans out of matches they had paid to attend.