Spain Beat France 2-0 To Reach 2026 FIFA World Cup Final

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 2026 – Spain advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after defeating France 2-0 in a controlled semifinal performance at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The victory sent La Roja into their first World Cup final since 2010, when they lifted the trophy for the first time.

Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring in the 22nd minute from the penalty spot after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal inside the box. The early goal gave Spain control of the match and forced France to chase the game against one of the tournament’s most organised defensive sides.

Spain doubled their lead in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro, who combined well with Dani Olmo before finishing past France goalkeeper Mike Maignan. The second goal strengthened Spain’s grip on the semifinal and left France struggling to find a way back into the match.

Lamine Yamal also came close to adding a third goal shortly after Porro’s strike, but his effort was ruled out for offside. France had chances through Kylian Mbappe and Desire Doue, but Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon and the Spanish back line kept the French attack quiet until the final whistle.

The result marked another strong defensive display from Spain, who recorded their sixth clean sheet in seven matches at the tournament. Spain’s ability to close spaces and control possession made it difficult for France’s attacking trio, led by Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise, to create clear chances.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised his team after the victory, saying they had faced one of the best national teams in the world but showed their own quality on the biggest stage. Midfielder Rodri also said Spain wanted more after reaching the final, making it clear that the team’s target is to win the World Cup.

For France, the defeat ended their hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final. Didier Deschamps’ side will now move into the third-place playoff, while Spain will prepare for the final against either England or Argentina.

Spain’s unbeaten run under De la Fuente has now reached 37 matches in regulation time, the longest streak in the national team’s history. The win also continued Spain’s impressive tournament form, with the team showing balance between attacking movement, tactical discipline and defensive strength.