Spain and Argentina set for historic World Cup final after semifinal victories

Spain and Argentina have advanced to the final of the FIFA World Cup 2026 following their respective semifinal victories over France and England. The outcome sets up a historic clash in New Jersey on Sunday, marking the first time since the inaugural 1930 tournament that two Spanish-speaking nations will contest the title. Argentina enters the match as the reigning World Cup and Copa America champions, facing Spain, the current European champions.

Spain secured a 2-0 victory over France at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday, 14 July 2026. The decisive penalty was awarded in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal was fouled by France’s Lucas Digne, who appeared surprised while attempting a clearance. Mikel Oyarzabal converted the spot-kick, and Pedro Porro added a second goal in the 58th minute to seal the win.

France’s performance was hampered by tactical issues and injuries. Manager Didier Deschamps faced scrutiny for substituting Adrien Rabiot after a yellow card and leaving injured Aurelien Tchouameni in play. William Saliba also departed in the first half with a back problem. Deschamps questioned the officiating of Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton post-match, though such critiques are typically handled behind the scenes by federation officials.

In the other semifinal, Argentina defeated England 2-1 in a tightly contested match. Enzo Fernandez scored an 85th-minute equaliser with a long-range effort, refusing to defer to Lionel Messi. Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in stoppage time after receiving a cross from Messi, who extended his goal or assist streak in World Cup tournaments to 11 consecutive games.

England manager Thomas Tuchel switched to a five-man back line in the 72nd minute but failed to hold the lead. Tuchel faced scrutiny for not utilising Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka earlier in the match, with Rashford and Saka potentially offering a counterattacking threat that was absent in the final stages.