Spain’s relentless dominance in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final forced Argentina into the record books for all the wrong reasons, as Lionel Messi’s side failed to register a single shot in the first 45 minutes of Sunday’s game.The win remained 0-0 at half-time at the MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey, but the scores gave a picture of Spain’s complete dominance. According to Opta, the first half saw just three shots on goal between the two teams – the fewest recorded in a FIFA World Cup final since detailed records began in 1966.Most impressively, Argentina did not score a single try before the break, marking the first time since 1966 that La Albiceleste failed to register a shot in the first half of any World Cup match.These incredible numbers showed a technical victory for Spain, although they were unable to find the lead before the end of the period.
Spain is in control of the goods but is unable to count
As they did throughout the tournament, Spain controlled the tempo through their trademark football.The Europeans ended up more than doubling Argentina’s lead in the first half, keeping Lionel Scaloni’s men at bay for long periods and denying Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez any attacking opportunities.Despite enjoying the lion’s share and three early shot attempts, Spain were unable to break down Argentina’s strong defence, leaving the contest goalless.Argentina were also forced into an unplanned change late in the first half when Lisandro Martinez appeared injured and was replaced by veteran midfielder Nicolas Otamendi.
Another first goalless session in World Cup finals history
The stalemate added another chapter to the history of the World Cup.It was the ninth World Cup final to be goalless, joining the finals in 1934, 1950, 1982, 1990, 1994, 2002, 2010 and 2014.Defending champions Argentina enter the final chasing a fourth World Cup crown and hope to become the first country since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the title.Spain, meanwhile, was looking to win a second World Cup after defeating South Africa in 2010 and becoming the first country to host both men’s and women’s FIFA World Cups.The final brought back the curtain on the biggest World Cup in history. The massive 48-team tournament featured 104 matches in the United States, Canada and Mexico and produced more than 300 goals before the finals.