Thirty-four days after a frustrating goalless draw against tournament debutants Cape Verde, Spain lifted the World Cup trophy on Sunday, defeating holders Argentina 1-0 in the final in New Jersey.

Luis de la Fuente's young side improved dramatically throughout the tournament, conceding just one goal and extending their unbeaten run to an incredible 38 matches.

The final was a masterclass in control: Spain enjoyed 65% possession, while Argentina managed only two shots in 120 minutes, none on target. Ferran Torres smashed home the winner in the 106th minute.

Spain fielded the sixth-youngest squad (average age 26.19), with teenagers Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal (both 19), 23-year-old Pedri, and 24-year-old Nico Williams playing key roles.

In the semifinal, Spain outclassed France 2-0, with the midfield trio of Dani Olmo, Rodri, and Fabian Ruiz dominating possession and neutralizing threats like Kylian Mbappe.

With a young core and de la Fuente's contract extended to 2028, Spain are poised to dominate international football, including the 2030 home World Cup.

Source: www.aljazeera.com