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Nico Williams dedicates Spain’s World Cup victory to his ‘idol’ Neymar after stunning final win over Argentina
Arjun Pillai | July 21, 2026 7:08 PM CST

Spain forward Nico Williams has dedicated La Roja’s historic FIFA World Cup final victory over Argentina to his “idol” Neymar. The Athletic Club star delivered the decisive assist in extra time for Ferran Torres’ winning goal at the New York New Jersey Stadium, helping Spain clinch their second World Cup title and draw level with France and Uruguay on the all-time list.

La Roja claim the ultimate prize

The reigning European champions sealed their place among football’s elite after defeating a ten-man Argentina side in extra time. Luis de la Fuente’s team dominated proceedings from start to finish, tallying 20 shots compared to Argentina’s three. Introduced as a second-half substitute, Williams made an immediate impact, adding pace and creativity to Spain’s attack as they relentlessly pressed against the resilient Albiceleste defence.

Williams pays tribute to his footballing hero

The 24-year-old was ecstatic after the final whistle and surprised many by dedicating football’s most prestigious trophy to Brazil’s number 10, Neymar, who had exited the competition earlier in the round of 16 with the Selecao. Speaking to Caze TV, Williams said, “I’m very happy, for me this is the most beautiful thing. I idolise Neymar, I hope he’s watching us—this one is also for him.”

Torres seals the historic triumph

In the sweltering conditions, the final intensified as the match wore on, particularly after Enzo Fernandez was sent off for a reckless tackle on Pau Cubarsi just before extra time began. The deadlock was broken early in the second half of extra time when Williams charged down the wing and sent a perfectly cushioned header into the path of former Manchester City forward Ferran Torres, who slotted home a precise finish. Williams had earlier found the back of the net himself, but his goal was ruled out due to a foul by Mikel Merino on Nicolas Otamendi.

What comes next?

This victory marks a historic milestone for La Roja, as Spain becomes the first nation to simultaneously hold both the men’s and women’s World Cup titles. With a youthful, talented core led by rising stars such as Lamine Yamal, Spain looks poised to continue their dominance heading into the next international cycle. For Williams, the focus will soon return to domestic football with Athletic Club, though not before he enjoys a well-earned break following his World Cup heroics.


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