Spain’s World Cup Triumph: Heartwarming Moments, Trump Photobombs, and the Best Viral Memes

On July 19, the Spanish national football team became world champions for the second time in history, defeating Argentina 1–0 in the final. The winning goal was scored in the 106th minute of extra time by Ferran Torres.

Spain's victory quickly resonated far beyond the pitch: royal family reunions, stars in the stands, surprising parallels to the 2010 triumph, heartwarming family tributes, and, of course, an explosion of internet memes. La Cotorra brings you the top viral highlights from this historic day.

Heartwarming Moments

Lamine Yamal went over to console Lionel Messi after Argentina's defeat in the World Cup final. (Read more about the special connection between the two players here).

In 2010, Andrés Iniesta’s 116th-minute strike crowned Spain world champions. In 2026, history repeated itself as Ferran Torres found the net in extra time in the 106th minute.

Nico Williams presented his gold medal to his mother, who walked barefoot across the Sahara Desert while pregnant with his older brother Iñaki to give her children a chance at a better life.

Lamine Yamal’s younger brother, Keyne, has almost matched his superstar sibling in viral fame—every video featuring the toddler on the pitch has melted hearts across social media.

Sixteen years between two photos: Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía posing with the World Cup trophy in 2010 versus 2026.

Best Memes from the Final

During Spain’s trophy presentation, U.S. President Donald Trump simply refused to step off the podium, posing alongside the Spanish squad as if he had personally won the tournament. FIFA President Gianni Infantino repeatedly signaled that it was time to step aside, but Trump held his ground surrounded by celebrating players.

Eagle-eyed fans later noticed on social media that Trump was completely cropped out of the Spanish Football Federation’s official celebration photos.

As expected, the iconic viral photo of Messi bathing a baby Lamine Yamal received a hilarious wave of fresh reimaginings in light of Spain’s championship win.

Marc Cucurella’s trademark curls and their accompanying internet memes took on a whole new life following La Roja's World Cup triumph.

Spanish Hollywood icon Antonio Banderas shared an emotional reaction to his country's victory.

Fans were also blown away by the massive American Super Bowl-style halftime show staged between halves.

Madonna opened the halftime extravaganza alongside two surprise legendary guests—Ronaldo and Ronaldinho—naturally sparking a flurry of online jokes.

And finally—because no major event in Spain is complete without a homage to Fallas and Valencia: