For Spain, a methodical World Cup approach helped it keep its ‘appointment with history’

This version of Methodical World Cup Approach Helped Spain Keep Appointment History Rcna588287 - Sports and Recreation | NBC News Clone was adapted by NBC News Clone to help readers digest key facts more efficiently.

The team’s leader wasn’t a storied striker like Argentina’s Lionel Messi — and its teenage phenom didn’t score in every game. Spain’s best moments often came from the most unexpected players.

On-field action during the world cup final match.

Ferran Torres of Spain scores the only goal of the World Cup final against Argentina in East Rutherford, N.J., on Sunday.Al Bello / Getty Images

July 20, 2026, 12:52 AM EDT / Updated July 20, 2026, 2:27 PM EDT

By Doha Madani

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — To the casual observer, the 2026 World Cup final may have looked like a David vs. Goliath type of tale as the small contingent of Spain supporters were drowned out by a sea of blue and white Argentina jerseys in the stands of MetLife Stadium on Sunday.

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