Spain coach, Luis de la Fuente, hailed his players’ discipline and collective spirit after La Roja edged Argentina 1-0 in extra time to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting their triumph was built on teamwork and tactical execution.
Ferran Torres struck the decisive goal in the 106th minute to seal Spain’s second World Cup title after a tense final in which the European champions dominated possession and successfully neutralised Lionel Messi’s influence.
Reflecting on Spain’s journey to the title, De la Fuente said the victory was the reward for steady improvement throughout the tournament and praised his players for their commitment in difficult moments.
“We had a great World Cup and we learned from every game. We were superior in the final, it’s a pity we didn’t win it earlier, but it is never easy to play games like this,” De la Fuente told Rai Sport. “Winning with sacrifices is always the best thing.”
Spain’s tactical plan centred on limiting Messi’s involvement by controlling possession, preventing the Argentina captain from dictating play in dangerous areas.
Discussing how his side contained the Inter Miami star, De la Fuente said, “We managed to keep him away with ball possession. We did very well indeed, the work of the team was sublime.”
The Spain coach credited his squad’s unity rather than individual brilliance for the historic success, describing his players as the foundation of the team’s achievements.
“I have wonderful players, brilliant, the best in the world. They make things look easier and besides that, they always work with the maximum dedication,” he explained. “We had the best team, not the best national team, we had great attention and I am very proud of my players.”
Spain finished the tournament as deserved champions after conceding just one goal in eight matches while extending their impressive run under De la Fuente, having also won Euro 2024.
With another major title secured, La Roja will now turn their attention to maintaining their dominance at future international competitions.
