The FIFA World Cup The 2026 final produced drama late in extra time when Argentina were forced to play 30 extra minutes with 10 men after Enzo Fernandez was sent off in stoppage time against Spain.With the score tied at 0-0 after 90 minutes, Fernandez received a second yellow card in the 93rd minute following a late challenge on Spanish midfielder Pau Cubarsi, sending him off. Lionel MessiA personal side in the most important part of the title race.This happened shortly after Argentina’s escape from Spain. The ball was cleared in the area following a save from Emiliano Martinez, but as Argentina tried to start their own destiny, Fernandez arrived late and caught Cubarsi off guard.The referee did not hesitate to show the midfielder a second yellow card, despite Fernandez protesting.Argentina were forced to defend with 10 men at the end of the period and went into extra time facing a huge challenge against a Spanish team that dominated the game.
Spain dominate but Martinez keeps Argentina in check
Spain dominated the tournament for a long time, producing a strong display against the defending champions.La Roja finished the period in charge with 15 shots compared to Argentina’s zero, nine corners and one for Argentina, and had more possession. However, he could not find success for the inspired Emiliano Martinez.The Argentinian goalkeeper was brilliant in the end, making 10 saves – the most in a World Cup final – to keep his team alive.One of his greatest achievements came shortly after Fernandez’s dismissal when Spanish teenager Lamine Yamal lifted a dangerous ball from 22 yards. The 19-year-old’s effort looked to be on point, but Martinez produced a brilliant save to deny him.At the same time the goalkeeper stood up and beat the wind and told people to make noise inside the stadium.
The longest scoreless finish in history comes in overtime
What happened after 90 minutes added another chapter to the history of World Cup finals.The match was the ninth World Cup final to be goalless in the last term, joining previous classics such as Spain vs Netherlands in 2010 and Germany vs Argentina in 2014.The opening half had already created a unique record, with only three shots – the fewest in the first half of a World Cup final since the record began in 1966.Argentina also became the first team since 1966 to fail to qualify for the first round of any World Cup.While Spain continued to fight for a second World Cup after their victory in 2010, Argentina chased a fourth crown and hoped to become the first country since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the trophy.