Spain secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final after defeating France 2-0 in a dominant semi final performance at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The European champions outclassed one of the tournament favorites to move within one victory of lifting the World Cup trophy.
The breakthrough came in the first half when Lamine Yamal won a penalty after being brought down by Lucas Digne inside the box. Mikel Oyarzabal confidently converted from the spot, beating goalkeeper Mike Maignan to score his fifth goal of the tournament. The goal put Spain in control and handed France their first deficit of the competition.
France struggled to respond despite their star-studded attack featuring Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Michael Olise. Didier Deschamps’ side failed to register a shot on target before halftime, while their defensive concerns increased after William Saliba was forced off with a recurring back injury.
Spain maintained their intensity after the break and doubled their advantage in the 58th minute. Pedro Porro combined brilliantly with Dani Olmo before calmly finishing past Maignan to make it 2-0. France introduced fresh attacking options, including Desire Doue, Theo Hernandez, and Rayan Cherki, but Spain’s disciplined defense comfortably protected their lead until the final whistle.
The victory highlights Spain’s remarkable balance throughout the tournament. They have conceded only one goal in the competition while continuing to impress with their attacking creativity through players like Yamal, Olmo, and Oyarzabal. The 2010 world champions are now just one win away from becoming the first team to lift the expanded 48 team FIFA World Cup.
For France, the defeat ends another impressive World Cup campaign. After winning the title in 2018 and finishing runners up in 2022, Les Bleus fall short of another final appearance. Didier Deschamps, who will step down after the tournament, will now prepare his side for the third place playoff while Spain await the winner of the second semi final between England and Argentina.
