The breakthrough came early in the second half of extra time after Nico Williams kept the ball in play with a determined effort before setting up Torres, who fired an accurate finish into the roof of the net to secure Spain's first and only goal of the match.
Argentina entered the final expecting their toughest test of the tournament against the reigning European champions and adopted a cautious, defense-first approach. Despite Spain dominating the early exchanges, Emiliano Martinez denied Lamine Yamal with an outstanding save in the fifth minute to keep the scores level.
After withstanding Spain's early pressure, Argentina tightened their defensive shape and limited the influence of Yamal, preventing the winger from making his trademark runs while cutting off support around him.
Argentina suffered a setback late in the first half when central defender Lisandro Martinez was forced off through injury. However, Lionel Scaloni's side maintained its defensive organization, with Martinez continuing to deliver key saves in goal.
The balance of the contest shifted dramatically in the closing moments of normal time when Enzo Fernandez was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, leaving Argentina to play the entire 30 minutes of extra time with 10 men.
Spain intensified the pressure against the numerical disadvantage. Argentina resisted throughout the first period of extra time before finally conceding when Torres converted Williams' delivery to break the deadlock.
Forced to chase an equalizer despite being a man down, Argentina struggled to break through Spain's disciplined defense in the closing stages.
Spain successfully protected its narrow advantage to become world champions, while Lionel Messi and Argentina surrendered the World Cup title after their bid to retain the trophy came to an end.
