Argentina Struggle to Create Attacking Threat
Argentina adopted a highly defensive approach, dropping deep and surrendering possession as they attempted to contain Spain’s attacking pressure.
The reigning South American powerhouse failed to create meaningful counterattacking opportunities during regulation time, while goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez reportedly finished the opening 90 minutes with more touches of the ball than any of his Argentina teammates.
Unprecedented Record Since Data Collection Began
According to statistics from sports data provider Opta, Argentina became the first team in a World Cup final to complete the opening 90 minutes without registering a shot on target since detailed records began in 1966.
The statistic highlighted Argentina’s attacking difficulties against a Spanish side that controlled large periods of the final.
Costa Rica Previously Recorded Similar Statistics
Finishing a World Cup match without a shot on target has occurred on only a limited number of occasions.
Costa Rica previously recorded the unwanted statistic twice, against Brazil at the 1990 World Cup and against Spain at the 2022 tournament, before Argentina joined the list in the 2026 final.
Argentina Record Just 34% Possession
Argentina’s struggles were also reflected in their possession statistics, with the team controlling just 34% of the ball during regulation time.
According to the reported statistics, it was Argentina’s lowest possession figure in a World Cup match since data collection began in 1966.
Despite their limited attacking presence, Argentina’s defensive resistance kept the contest alive through regulation time and forced the final into extra time.
Ferran Torres Delivers World Cup Glory for Spain
The match was ultimately decided in the second period of extra time when Spanish substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal.
The victory secured Spain’s second World Cup title, while Argentina ended their campaign as runners-up and with an unwanted attacking record from the tournament’s biggest match.
