World · From the edition of Jul 17, 2026
✳ Dated MONDAY, JULY 20, 2026 ✳
SPAIN CONQUERS THE 48-NATION WORLD CUP
as La Roja beats a battling Argentina to lift the trophy on American soil
NEW JERSEY, July 20 — Spain beat Argentina Sunday to win the first 48-nation World Cup, exactly as the betting markets predicted at 59 percent. A hundred thousand fans packed the stadium. Spain kept its cool and ground down the defending champions. The final whistle blew. La Roja stood on top of the world.
The favorites delivered. Spain led the odds all tournament; Argentina slipped to underdog status defending its title. The expanded field of 48 teams sprawled across North America — a first, and a logistical monster. Fans reported chaos in the stands, banners in a dozen languages, and one very long, very hot summer.
Argentina's loss stings after winning Qatar four years ago. Its supporters went silent, then filed out into the New Jersey night. Spain adds a second star to the one it won in 2010. The party heads home across the Atlantic. Next time, the world comes for the crown.
Source: Polymarket · 59% probability — View market ↗