Spain booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after producing a commanding 2-0 victory over France in Tuesday's semi-final at AT&T Stadium in Dallas.
Spain controlled the contest from start to finish, neutralising France's attacking threats while punishing their opponents with goals in each half to reach their first final since 2010.
Spain took the lead in the 22nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted a penalty after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the area by Lucas Digne. The Real Sociedad striker sent the goalkeeper the wrong way to give La Roja an early advantage.
France struggled to establish any rhythm throughout the encounter, with Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and the rest of Didier Deschamps' attack finding little space against Spain's disciplined defensive structure and dominant midfield. The French attack, which had looked strong throughout the tournament, was completely nullified.
Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro, who finished confidently after an intelligent assist from Dani Olmo. The Tottenham full-back completed a sharp combination before firing past the French goalkeeper to seal victory and spark celebrations among Spanish fans in Texas.
DailyVista247 gathered that Spain took command through their positional play after an even start, limiting France's chances and controlling the tempo for long spells. The European champions were in total control and produced a near-perfect defensive display.
The victory sends Spain into the World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between Argentina and England, scheduled for Wednesday at MetLife Stadium. Spain will be aiming to lift the trophy for the second time in their history.
France, who were world champions in 2018 and runners-up in 2022, exit the competition despite a strong campaign. Didier Deschamps' side enjoyed periods of pressure but lacked cutting edge and could not breach Spain's disciplined defence that rarely put a foot wrong all night.
The result means Spain reach their second ever World Cup final, having previously won the tournament in 2010 in South Africa with Andres Iniesta's extra-time winner against Netherlands. Luis de la Fuente's side have now made it three wins in a row against France, having beaten Les Bleus in the 2024 European Championship semi-finals and the UEFA Nations League final.
Spain also made history by becoming the first team in World Cup history to start a semi-final with two teenagers, as Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi were both named in the starting eleven, FIFA confirmed. Both players play for Barcelona at club level. France were dealt a blow when defender William Saliba was forced off injured in the first half.
Spain were dominant in Dallas, controlling possession and pressing France to prevent them from creating clear chances. The Spanish side showed their quality and discipline to keep another clean sheet in the tournament.
The final will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday, July 19, with over 80,000 fans expected to attend. Spain will go into the final full of confidence after beating one of the favourites to win the tournament.
