The Barcelona forward struck in the 106th minute, finishing emphatically after Nico Williams nodded Pedro Porro’s cross into his path, sealing Spain’s second World Cup title, 16 years after lifting their maiden trophy in South Africa.
Played before a packed crowd of more than 80,000 spectators at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the highly anticipated final was expected to provide another magical chapter in Messi’s illustrious career.
Instead, Spain dominated possession and created the better chances throughout the contest, while Argentina failed to register a single shot on target in 120 minutes.
Messi, making what is widely believed to be his final World Cup appearance at the age of 39, struggled to influence the game as Spain’s disciplined midfield and defence kept the Argentine captain quiet.
The encounter was fiercely contested, with Argentina repeatedly resorting to physical challenges in an attempt to halt Spain’s attacking rhythm.
Enzo Fernández was eventually sent off deep into extra time after a dangerous tackle on Pau Cubarsí, capping a frustrating evening for the South American side.
Spain had looked the more dangerous team throughout regulation time but were denied repeatedly by goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who produced several crucial saves to keep Argentina in the contest.
Nico Williams also had a goal ruled out during extra time before Torres finally broke the deadlock with the championship-winning strike.
Despite a late push from Argentina, Spain remained composed to secure a famous victory, ending Argentina’s reign as world champions and crushing hopes of Messi signing off his legendary international career with a second World Cup title.
The triumph marks another milestone for La Roja, whose youthful squad delivered an impressive tournament campaign and confirmed their return to the summit of world football.
