Why Spain's Nico Williams' extra-time goal was called back vs. Argentina in World Cup final

Why Spain's Nico Williams' extra-time goal was called back vs. Argentina in World Cup final originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

For a moment, Spain star Nico Williams thought he had found his second-ever goal in a major international tournament final.

The Athletic Bilbao winger danced down the flank in La Roja's World Cup final tilt with Argentina, connecting with a pass from Dani Olmo and slotting it coolly into the back of the net in extra time.

However, Williams' euphoria was short-lived, brought to a close as the referee's whistle erupted.

Here's what you need to know about the controversial decision to rule out Williams' apparent go-ahead strike in Spain-Argentina.

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Why Spain had Nico Williams goal called back

Williams thought he had tallied the go-ahead goal in the 96th minute, unloading on a scrambling ball following some good work from Olmo and Mikel Merino.

NO GOAL FOR SPAIN 🚫

Nico Williams thought he gave Spain the lead in extra time, but a foul is called! pic.twitter.com/kwRZg1Nzh4

— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 19, 2026

Williams deposited the effort below an outstretched Martinez and wheeled off in celebration, only to be stopped in his tracks. His goal had been deemed illicit due to a "foul" in the lead-up.

The "foul" in question came right before the ball reached Williams' foot. Referee Slavko Vincic ruled that Argentine defender Nicolas Otamendi was felled by a foul from Merino.

A look at the foul on Mikel Merino as Spain thought they had the go-ahead goal pic.twitter.com/maUaljFP0D

— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 19, 2026

The call appeared to be a dubious one. However, Vincic wasn't advised to review his decision. The foul was upheld despite protestations from La Roja's sideline.

CBS Sports' Nico Cantor explained that Vincic only could review the call through VAR if he had blown the whistle after the ball burst the net. It seems he made his decision before, meaning the call was not reviewable.