'Football won': Toni Kroos reacts after Spain beat Argentina in FIFA World Cup 2026 final
New Jersey, July 20
Former Germany midfielder and Real Madrid great Toni Kroos offered a blunt reaction to Spain's FIFA World Cup 2026 triumph, posting a two-word message on social media after La Roja defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time in Sunday's final.
Shortly after the final whistle at MetLife Stadium, Kroos wrote on X, "Football won."
The brief post was widely interpreted as the retired midfielder's verdict on Spain's victory over Lionel Messi's Argentina, who were bidding to become the first team in 64 years to successfully defend the World Cup.
Spain secured their second world title thanks to Ferran Torres' decisive strike in the 106th minute after a tense and hard-fought contest in New Jersey.
Luis de la Fuente's side dominated large spells of the final but had to wait until extra time to break Argentina's resistance. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez produced several crucial saves to deny Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres and Pau Cubarsi, while Enzo Fernandez's sending-off in second-half stoppage time left the defending champions with 10 men before the decisive period.
Spain thought they had gone ahead early in extra time when Nico Williams found the net, only for the goal to be ruled out for a foul in the build-up. Torres eventually settled the contest, smashing home from close range after Williams' knockdown to hand La Roja a 1-0 victory.
The win secured Spain's first World Cup title since 2010 and extended their unbeaten international run to a European-record 38 matches.
Kroos, regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation, retired from professional football in 2024 after a trophy-laden career with Real Madrid.
Renowned for his vision, composure and passing range, the German won 34 major trophies during a 17-year career, making him the second-most decorated German footballer behind Thomas Muller. During his decade at Real Madrid, Kroos made 306 appearances, scored 22 goals and helped the Spanish giants win multiple domestic and European titles.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Sorry but I disagree a bit. Argentina were unlucky with that red card. Enzo Fernandez's sending off changed the whole game. Spain were good but it's harsh to say "football won" as if Argentina's style wasn't football too. Credit to Martinez though - that man is a wall!
Spain's tiki-taka is back! 🇪🇸 Reminds me of the 2010 team. And Kroos, being the legend he is, knows proper football when he sees it. Argentina fans will be upset but Spain outplayed them for most of the match. Ferran Torres clutch moment in extra time!
As a neutral fan from the US watching here in New Jersey, it was an incredible final. Spain deserved it on the day. Kroos' two-word post says it all - beautiful football won over defensive grit. Great to see the World Cup back in Europe.
Yaar, this was a tense match! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. Argentina defending champions but Spain's young team like Williams and Olmo were electric. Kroos knows quality - he played at the highest level. Respect for both teams though. 👏
Honestly a bit disappointed for Messi. He gave everything for Argentina but Spain's midfield dominance was just too much. That 38-match unbeaten run is ridiculous. Kroos' comment is a bit dismissive of Argentina's efforts but I get where he's coming from.
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