Rodri, the captain of Spain, led his team to victory in the FIFA World Cup, earning the prestigious Golden Ball awarded to the tournament's best player.
On July 20, Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the first minute of extra time, securing Spain's second World Cup title since 2010.
With this victory, Spain claimed a prize of $50 million. The team also set a new record for the longest unbeaten streak in men's international soccer, going 38 matches without a loss (29 wins, 9 draws), surpassing Italy's record from 2018 to 2021. Spain's defense was particularly impressive, allowing only one goal throughout the tournament, which came in the quarterfinals against Belgium. In the final, they did not concede a single shot on target to Argentina.
Spain not only won the championship but also swept the individual awards. Rodri, the midfield orchestrator, won the Golden Ball, marking the first time a Spanish player has received this honor. Although he did not score or assist in the tournament, he started all eight matches and was instrumental in Spain's success.
The Golden Glove, awarded to the best goalkeeper, went to Spain's Unai Simon, who kept seven clean sheets during the tournament. The Young Player Award was given to Pau Cubar, a central defender born in 2007.
The Golden Boot, awarded to the tournament's top scorer, was claimed by France's Kylian Mbappe, who scored 10 goals and provided 4 assists. This marks his second consecutive Golden Boot, making him the first player in history to win it twice.
The Fair Play Award was given to the Netherlands.
Argentina's Lionel Messi, who recorded 8 goals and 4 assists in the tournament, set a record for the oldest outfield player to appear in a World Cup final at 39 years and 25 days. However, he was unable to achieve his dream of a second consecutive title and bid farewell to the World Cup stage.
After receiving the Silver Ball and Silver Boot, Messi was seen in tears as he wore his silver medal. He left the stadium early through the tunnel after watching Spain lift the trophy.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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