Spain defeats France 2-0 to reach World Cup final
Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro secure Spain’s place in the championship match, ending France’s campaign at AT&T Stadium.
Spain has advanced to the 2026 World Cup final after defeating France 2-0 in their semi-final encounter on Tuesday, 14 July 2016. The victory, secured by goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro, ends the tournament campaign for France, who were considered favourites for the title. The match took place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, which initial reports referred to as the Dallas stadium.
Spain, the 2010 World Cup champions, controlled the tempo of the semi-final, neutralising an attacking trio led by Kylian Mbappé. The 2-0 scoreline reflected a comprehensive performance by the Spanish side, who relied on defensive solidity and clinical finishing to eliminate their European rivals from contention.
France will now compete in the third-place match on Saturday in Miami Gardens, Florida. The outcome of their campaign concludes with a contest against the loser of the Argentina versus England semi-final, which is scheduled to be played on Wednesday.
Spain will face the winner of the Argentina versus England semi-final in the World Cup final on Sunday. The championship match is set to take place in New Jersey. The specific opponent for Spain remains undetermined pending the result of the other semi-final fixture.
The 2026 World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday in New Jersey. France’s exit marks the end of their bid to reach the final, while Spain progresses to the championship match with a clear tactical advantage established during the semi-final.
