Spain beats France to book place in World Cup 2026 final

Spain booked their place in the World Cup 2026 final after a disciplined 2-0 victory over France in the semifinal at the Dallas Stadium on Tuesday, July 14.

Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, calmly converting from the penalty spot after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the area. Pedro Porro doubled Spain’s advantage in the 58th, finishing off a slick move with Dani Olmo to put Luis de la Fuente’s side firmly in control. 

France, led by captain Kylian Mbappé, enjoyed spells of possession and pushed hard after the break, but Spain’s well-organised defence held firm to preserve another clean sheet. The Spanish backline successfully contained France’s attacking trio, with goalkeeper Unai Simón rarely troubled as Spain saw out the victory in composed fashion. 

The win sends Spain into their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010 and extends their impressive unbeaten run to 37 matches since March 2024.

Spain have also conceded just one goal throughout the tournament, underlining their defensive strength alongside an attack spearheaded by the likes of Yamal, Oyarzabal, and Olmo. 

France, who were aiming to reach a third consecutive World Cup final after their triumph in 2018 and runners-up finish in 2022, will now contest the third-place playoff. 

Spain will now turn their attention to Sunday’s final, where they will face the winner of the second semifinal between England and Argentina, with the title decider set to be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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