Spain produced a composed and clinical display to defeat France 2-0 on Tuesday, securing a place in the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding semi-final victory in Arlington, Texas.
Mikel Oyarzabal gave La Roja the lead in the 22nd minute, calmly converting a penalty after France defender Lucas Digne brought down teenage winger Lamine Yamal inside the area. The goal, Oyarzabal’s fifth of the tournament, marked the first time either side had fallen behind during their World Cup campaign.
Luis de la Fuente’s men doubled their advantage in the 58th minute when Pedro Porro capped a flowing team move orchestrated by Dani Olmo, firing into the bottom corner to leave France with a mountain to climb.
Spain’s disciplined defence frustrated Didier Deschamps’ side throughout the contest, limiting the influence of Kylian Mbappe and keeping Les Bleus at bay despite late pressure.
The victory sends Spain into Sunday’s World Cup final, where they will face the winner of Wednesday’s second semi-final between England and Argentina. France, meanwhile, will battle for third place on Saturday.
In its post-match report, FIFA described Spain as worthy winners after outclassing the 2018 champions.
“Spain frustrated France at one end and punished them at the other to deservedly win their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final,” FIFA said, praising La Roja’s defensive discipline and clinical finishing through Oyarzabal and Porro.
The report noted that France entered the match as slight favourites but were undone after Yamal, who had celebrated his 19th birthday a day earlier, won the penalty that Oyarzabal converted past Mike Maignan.
Spain sealed the result midway through the second half when Porro exchanged passes with Olmo before finishing confidently into the bottom corner.
Although France introduced Desire Doue and Rayan Cherki in search of a comeback, goalkeeper Unai Simon swept up danger effectively while Marc Cucurella produced a crucial challenge to deny Mbappe.
“The final whistle sparked ecstasy for the Spaniards and agony for the French,” FIFA added, noting that France will now have an opportunity to claim the bronze medal, while Mbappe remains in contention for the tournament’s Golden Boot award.
