Spain stunned tournament favourites France 2-0 on Tuesday night to book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, producing a commanding display that underlined their status as the team to beat.
The semifinal in Arlington, Texas, saw Luis de la Fuente’s side outclass a star-studded French team led by Kylian Mbappé, with Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro scoring the goals that sealed Spain’s place in Sunday’s final.
Spain took control in the 22nd minute after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the penalty area. Oyarzabal calmly converted from the spot to give La Roja a deserved lead after they had dominated possession and dictated the tempo of the contest.
France, who entered the match as one of the tournament favourites, struggled to break through Spain’s disciplined defence. Mbappé, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise were largely kept quiet as Spain’s midfield and backline denied Les Bleus any clear-cut opportunities.
Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute when right-back Pedro Porro finished off a slick passing move involving Dani Olmo, leaving France with a mountain to climb. Lamine Yamal later had a goal ruled out for offside, while substitute Ferran Torres also came close as Spain threatened to extend their lead.
Despite late attempts by Mbappé to inspire a comeback, France failed to find a breakthrough against a Spanish side that has now kept six clean sheets in seven matches and remains unbeaten since March 2024.
The defeat also ended France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.
Speaking after the victory, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente hailed his team’s performance, declaring: “We were up against one of the best national teams in the world, but today, they were facing the best team in the world.”
Spain will now face the winner of Wednesday’s semifinal between England and Argentina in the World Cup final, while France will contest the third-place playoff.
