New Jersey: Spain's journey to securing the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina was fraught with tension, particularly following a highly controversial decision to disallow a goal from Nico Williams.

During the first half of extra time, Williams appeared to have broken the deadlock when he slotted the ball into the back of the net. However, the Spanish celebrations were immediately cut short. The goal was ruled out due to an alleged foul in the build-up involving Spanish substitute Mikel Merino and Argentine defender Nicolás Otamendi.

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Otamendi went down theatrically under pressure inside the penalty area. Replays indicated that Merino had brushed against the defender, and referee Slavko Vincic judged that the Spanish midfielder had stepped on Otamendi’s foot as the two players challenged for the ball.

The officiating process quickly became a major talking point. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) intervened, determining the contact constituted a foul in the attacking phase. Controversially, Vincic accepted the VAR recommendation to disallow the strike without consulting the pitch-side monitor for an on-field review. The referee's decision left the Spanish players in total disbelief.

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The disallowed goal triggered an avalanche of reactions online. Fans online labelled the decision a "robbery," arguing that the contact was accidental, minimal, and insufficient to overturn a crucial goal in football’s biggest match. Many supporters also criticised the speed of the VAR review and the referee's reliance on the booth rather than reviewing the incident himself.

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Despite the intense frustration and the temporary reprieve for Argentina, Spain maintained their composure. Spain eventually found their legitimate breakthrough in the 106th minute, courtesy of Ferran Torres. While Williams was denied his moment of glory on the scoresheet, the contentious refereeing decision ultimately did not prevent La Roja from lifting their first World Cup trophy in 16 years.