Spain produced a disciplined and clinical performance to defeat France 2-0 in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a place in Sunday’s final and moving one step closer to a second world title.
The reigning European champions took control of the contest in the first half, with Mikel Oyarzabal opening the scoring from the penalty spot after Lamine Yamal was fouled inside the box.
Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute when Pedro Porro finished off a well-worked move, leaving France with a mountain to climb. Despite boasting attacking stars including Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, Les Bleus struggled to break down Spain’s resolute defence.
The victory extends Spain’s impressive unbeaten run and sends them into their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 2010. They will face the winner of the second semi-final between England and Argentina in Sunday’s showpiece.
France, who were aiming to reach a third consecutive World Cup final, will now compete in the third-place playoff after seeing their title ambitions ended by an outstanding Spanish side.
