The 2026 World Cup Final between Argentina and Spain has entered extra time after a dramatic finish to 90 minutes — one that will be remembered as much for Enzo Fernandez's reckless red card as for any football played.

Spain dominated the second half from the first whistle, creating a string of opportunities without ever truly converting their pressure into a decisive chance. Marc Cucurella was denied a clear opening inside the six-yard box by an Argentinian challenge, while a moment of clever box play also came to nothing.

Argentina punished for ill discipline

Argentina's discipline was a growing concern throughout the second half. Leandro Paredes was booked for unsporting behaviour — repeated shoving carried out directly in front of referee Slavko Vincic — and Spain were handed two consecutive free-kicks on the edge of the Argentinian box, though they failed to make either count.

The statistical picture was damning for Argentina. By the 65th minute, television figures showed they had not managed a single attempt throughout the entire match. By the 70th minute, Lionel Messi's side had recorded just one touch inside Spain's penalty area, as the Spanish onslaught showed no sign of relenting.

Argentina did muster a brief attack approaching the 90th minute, but again failed to test the Spanish goalkeeper.

Fernandez's costly double yellow

The match's defining moment arrived deep in second-half injury time. Fernandez, the Chelsea midfielder, picked up his first yellow card for dissent before compounding the error with a reckless, late challenge on Pau Cubarsi just minutes later. Referee Vincic had no hesitation in producing a second yellow, which automatically triggered a red card.

Protests from Argentina's players prompted a brief VAR review, but the decision was upheld without amendment. Fernandez — and Argentina — had only themselves to blame.

A late Lamine Yamal free-kick, which Emi Martinez pushed away in the closing seconds, was the final action before the full-time whistle. The 2026 World Cup Final now moves into extra time, with Argentina reduced to 10 men and yet to register a single shot across 90 minutes.