Spain produced a commanding display to defeat France 2-0 on Tuesday and book their place in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending Les Bleus’ hopes of lifting a third world title.
A first-half penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal and a second-half strike by Pedro Porro sealed a deserved victory for the 2010 world champions at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Spain will face either Argentina or England in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
France entered the semi-final as one of the tournament favourites after an impressive run, but their star-studded attack of Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola and Michael Olise struggled to break down a disciplined Spanish side.
Led by Rodri, alongside Fabián Ruiz and Dani Olmo, Spain dominated midfield and dictated the tempo from the opening whistle, denying France any sustained control of the contest.
Despite Spain’s early dominance, France created the first clear opportunity when Pau Cubarsí produced a crucial block to deny Mbappé in the 16th minute.
Spain’s pressure paid off in the 21st minute after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area while attempting to clear Marc Cucurella’s cross. Referee Iván Barton pointed to the spot, and Oyarzabal calmly converted, sending goalkeeper Mike Maignan the wrong way.
France suffered another setback in the 31st minute when defender William Saliba was forced off injured and replaced by Maxence Lacroix.
Spain nearly doubled their advantage before halftime, but Dayot Upamecano made a vital block to deny Fabián Ruiz after a flowing team move. France’s best chance before the break fell to Mbappé, whose effort was stopped by goalkeeper Unai Simón.
Didier Deschamps introduced Manu Koné and Désiré Doué after the interval in an attempt to revive France, but Spain’s control remained unshaken.
The decisive second goal arrived in the 58th minute when Porro combined brilliantly with Olmo before finishing clinically past Maignan to double Spain’s advantage.
Spain thought they had added a third three minutes later, but Lamine Yamal’s effort was ruled out for offside.
France pushed forward in the closing stages, but Spain’s defence, marshalled by Aymeric Laporte and Cubarsí, remained resolute. Mbappé’s best opportunity was denied by Simón, while the France captain was later booked after following through on the Spanish goalkeeper.
The victory extends Spain’s recent dominance over France, having now beaten Les Bleus in their last three competitive meetings, and keeps alive their bid to win a second FIFA World Cup title.
