Spain secured a place in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after producing a commanding 2-0 victory over France in their semi-final clash in Dallas, ending Les Bleus’ hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.
Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro ensured La Roja progressed to Sunday’s final, where they will meet the winner of the second semi-final between Argentina and England.
France entered the encounter as one of the tournament favourites, spearheaded by Golden Boot contender Kylian Mbappe, but struggled to find a way past a well-drilled Spanish side that combined defensive solidity with impressive ball control.
Spain broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the penalty area by Lucas Digne. The referee had no hesitation in awarding a penalty, and Oyarzabal confidently converted the spot-kick, sending goalkeeper Mike Maignan the wrong way as he found the top corner.
Following the opener, Spain continued to dictate proceedings, with midfielders Rodri and Fabian Ruiz controlling possession while Dani Olmo consistently found space to orchestrate attacks. France, meanwhile, struggled to establish any momentum against Spain’s disciplined pressing.
The French side suffered a further setback before the break when defender William Saliba was forced off with an injury. He was replaced by Maxence Lacroix, prompting an early defensive reshuffle for Didier Deschamps’ side.
Although France threatened through the attacking trio of Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola, and Mbappe, they found Spain’s defence difficult to break down. Goalkeeper Unai Simon produced a composed display, while full-back Pedro Porro excelled at both ends of the pitch.
In an effort to change the game’s momentum, France made a substitution at the start of the second half, with Kouadio Koné replacing the booked Adrien Rabiot to provide fresh energy in midfield.
However, Spain extended their advantage in the 58th minute through Porro. After combining neatly with Dani Olmo, the Tottenham defender continued his run into the penalty area, where he calmly slotted the ball beyond Maignan to double Spain’s lead.
France responded with a series of attacking changes, introducing Rayan Cherki and Theo Hernandez as they searched for a way back into the contest. Despite their increased attacking intent, Spain’s backline, led by Pau Cubarsi and Aymeric Laporte, remained composed and denied France any clear opportunities.
The clean-sheet victory highlighted Spain’s impressive defensive organisation throughout the tournament while showcasing their ability to control matches against elite opposition.
The win sends Spain into only the second FIFA World Cup final in the nation’s history as they chase a second world title following their memorable triumph in 2010.
For France, the defeat brings an end to another strong World Cup campaign. Despite being widely regarded as one of the favourites before the tournament, Les Bleus were unable to overcome a disciplined Spanish team on the night.
Spain will now shift their attention to Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where they will face either Argentina or England in a bid to become world champions once again.