local
Spain wins the World Cup by beating Argentina 1-0 on Ferran Torres’ goal in extra time
By Associated Press, TIM REYNOLDS at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate)
· July 19, 2026
· 7 min read
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — This is how good Spain was at the World Cup: Not even Lionel Messi had any answers.And when it was over, Spain walked off with the trophy. Messi simply walked off in tears.Spain is back atop the soccer world for a second time, after Ferran Torres’ first goal of this y...
Key takeaway Spain is back atop the soccer world for a second time, after Ferran Torres’ first goal of this year’s World Cup — unquestionably the goal of his life — gave his country a 1-0 win over now-dethroned champion Argentina in the final on Sunday.
Why this matters in The Nashville
The World Cup final between Spain and Argentina may have taken place in New Jersey, but the excitement of the tournament has been felt in Nashville , where soccer fans gathered to watch the matches. The dominance of Spain in the final, with 15 shots in regulation to Argentina's none, is a testament to the growing talent and competitiveness of international soccer. As the sport continues to gain popularity in the United States, Nashville's own soccer community is likely to feel a boost from the World Cup's success. With the city's diverse population and growing interest in soccer, it will be interesting to see how local teams and leagues respond to the increased attention and enthusiasm for the sport. The fact that Spain is now the first nation to hold both men's and women's World Cup titles may also inspire local female soccer players and teams in Nashville.
About this story
Original reporting by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . The Nashville surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 19, 2026 ·
Source: WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 7 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — This is how good Spain was at the World Cup: Not even Lionel Messi had any answers.And when it was over, Spain walked off with the trophy. Messi simply walked off in tears.Spain is back atop the soccer world for a second time, after Ferran Torres’ first goal of this y...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 19, 2026 by WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate) and curated for The Nashville readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Associated Press, TIM REYNOLDS at WSMV 4 News (NBC affiliate). To learn more about how The Nashville selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Nashville, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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