Argentina Becomes First Team in 60 Years Without a Single Shot on Target in 90 Minutes of a World Cup Final

• Argentina endured a historic off day in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, becoming the first team in 60 years to go 90 minutes without registering a single shot on target as Spain secured a 1-0 victory.

Argentina made unwanted FIFA World Cup history after failing to register a single shot during the first 90 minutes of Sunday’s 2026 World Cup final against Spain at the New York New Jersey Stadium.

Lionel Messi’s side, renowned for its attacking flair throughout the tournament, was completely shut down by a disciplined Spanish team that controlled possession and denied the reigning champions any clear scoring opportunities.

Despite scoring three or more goals in six matches en route to the final, Argentina struggled to break through Spain’s organised defence. Messi was closely marked whenever he received the ball, while the rest of the attack failed to create meaningful chances.

The Albiceleste’s first attempt of the match did not arrive until the 116th minute of extra time, highlighting Spain’s defensive dominance in one of the most one-sided World Cup finals in recent memory.

Spain eventually sealed a 1-0 victory through Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner, ending Argentina’s hopes of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to retain the FIFA World Cup title.

The defeat also left Argentina with an unwanted record, becoming the first team in six decades to go an entire 90 minutes of a FIFA World Cup final without registering a single shot.