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Spain are world champions. In a stunning two thousand twenty six World Cup final in New York, La Roja dismantled Argentina to claim the trophy in what many are calling a genuine victory for the beautiful game. Spain conceded just one goal across the entire tournament, a defensive masterclass that bordered on the extraordinary.
The night around that final was unlike anything football has ever seen. President Trump was in attendance, Shakira and Justin Bieber headlined a half-time show that stretched longer than any in the sport's history, turning MetLife Stadium into something between a political rally and a concert arena. The football almost felt secondary.
And for Lionel Messi, the final whistle may have drawn a curtain on the greatest career the sport has ever witnessed. The Argentina captain left the pitch in tears, his eyes red and raw, and was later labelled a baby by critics after appearing to try and get Marc Cucurella sent off. Manager Lionel Scaloni broke down completely at the post-match press conference, barely able to speak about his own future. Whatever comes next, that image of Messi weeping in New York will stay with football forever.
That's your play-by-play. Sports Desk, back to the booth.
