Spain secured their second World Cup title after a dramatic final against Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday. The match was decided in extra time, mirroring Spain’s first triumph 16 years ago in South Africa. Ferran Torres became the hero by scoring the decisive goal in the 106th minute, joining legendary figures like Andrés Iniesta, who netted the winner in 2010.
This victory places Spain among an elite group of nations with multiple World Cup wins. They now stand alongside seven other countries: Brazil with five titles, Germany and Italy with four each, Argentina with three, and France, Uruguay, and Spain each with two.
World champions Spain take the trophy on a victory parade
Following their triumph, the World Cup trophy will return to Spain on Monday. It is set to be showcased in a celebratory tour through the streets of Madrid before being exhibited at the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) headquarters in Las Rozas.
With their second World Cup title in hand, questions arise about whether Spain will retain the trophy permanently or return it for the next tournament. Spain is scheduled to co-host the 2030 World Cup, adding an intriguing dimension to the trophy’s future custodianship.
In some competitions, teams that win multiple times earn the right to keep the trophy. For example, in the UEFA Champions League, clubs that achieve five overall wins or three consecutive titles retain permanent possession of the trophy. Whether similar rules apply to the World Cup remains a point of interest following Spain’s latest victory.