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 Dallas Stadium, ending Les Bleus’ title bid with a composed and clinical display.
Luis de la Fuente’s side controlled the contest from start to finish, neutralising France’s attacking threats while punishing their opponents with goals in each half. The victory sends Spain into the World Cup final, where they will face either England or Argentina in a blockbuster showdown for football’s biggest prize.
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 goal rewarded Spain’s early dominance as they dictated possession and repeatedly unsettled the French defence.
France struggled to establish any rhythm throughout the encounter, with Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and the rest of Didier Deschamps’ attack finding little space against Spain’s disciplined defensive structure and dominant midfield.
Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro, who finished confidently after an intelligent assist from Dani Olmo. The goal capped another flowing Spanish move and left France with a mountain to climb.
Olmo was once again influential in midfield, completing 29 of his 30 passes for an impressive 96.7 per cent accuracy while creating two chances and providing the assist for Porro’s strike. Rodri also delivered another commanding performance, breaking up France’s attacks and controlling the tempo throughout the match.
Despite introducing fresh legs and pushing forward in the closing stages, France rarely looked capable of mounting a comeback. Mbappé endured a frustrating evening, wasting a late free-kick before receiving a yellow card after colliding with Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón as frustration began to show.
Spain comfortably managed the closing minutes, frustrating France with patient possession as chants echoed around Dallas Stadium. The final whistle confirmed one of the tournament’s most accomplished performances and ended France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.
The victory underlines Spain’s resurgence as one of world football’s dominant forces and keeps alive their dream of lifting a second FIFA World Cup trophy, while France must now reflect on a disappointing exit after being outplayed in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.
(The Sun)
