Spain just clinched their second World Cup crown, taking down Argentina 1-0 in extra time thanks to a absolute blast from Ferran Torres. You’d think the manager would be over the moon after a final like that, but Luis de la Fuente actually thinks they should have wrapped it up way sooner. Wild, right?
Torres: “Destiny Was Written”
It took until the 106th minute for Spain to finally break the deadlock, but man, what a moment. Torres converted a header from Nico Williams, firing it home from close range. Argentina’s keeper, Emiliano Martinez, was putting on a clinic, making a string of fine saves all game, but even he was powerless against Torres’ strike. After the match, Torres was pure emotion, saying he felt “destiny was written” for him and the squad. He even said the goal “came from 47m people,” not just the guys on the field. That’s a serious dedication. He also admitted that facing Lionel Messi in a final makes you worried, but he felt they “always backed ourselves and tried to show our football and I think we managed to do it once again.” That’s the mindset you need when it’s all on the line.
“Should Have Been Decided Much Earlier”
Even though they’re hoisting the trophy, De la Fuente wasn’t shy about saying the match “should have been decided much earlier.” Spain had been the most complete team all tournament and they’re also the reigning European champions, so maybe he’s just got super high standards. Argentina didn’t make it easy, though. Enzo Fernandez got dismissed for a second bookable offense right before extra time, clattering into Pau Cubarsi and leaving them with ten men. That defense, despite being a man down, dug in, but they couldn’t generate consistent chances against a Spanish backline that’s been stellar all World Cup. De la Fuente was clear about their strategy, saying “the first idea was to keep Messi at bay but also other players away from our goal.” He knows their “attitude of our players” was critical, adding, “We were convinced it was our final and we wanted to go all out for this final. If it wasn’t for their keeper we might’ve had a larger win.”
This victory continues a golden period for Spanish football. Not only are the men’s team European champions and now World Cup winners, but Spain also holds the Women’s World Cup title. That’s a powerhouse nation right there, and they just keep proving it on the biggest stages.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
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