Spain dismantle France to book World Cup final spot

Spain have secured their place in the 2026 World Cup final following a commanding 2-0 victory over France in the semi-final at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday. The result ends France’s campaign and sets up a final in New Jersey on Sunday against either England or Argentina.

The match was decided by two precise strikes from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro. Oyarzabal opened the scoring in the 20th minute from the penalty spot after France left-back Lucas Digne was penalised for inadvertently kicking Lamine Yamal in the box. Porro doubled the lead in the 58th minute, slotting home after a one-two pass with Dani Olmo that effectively ended the contest.

France struggled to maintain possession and create meaningful chances, registering an expected goals total of just 0.3. Kylian Mbappé attempted only three shots worth 0.08 xG, while the French attack, featuring Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, was largely neutralised by Spain’s disciplined structure. Centre-back William Saliba was substituted in the 30th minute with a back injury and replaced by Maxence Lacroix, further disrupting France’s defensive stability.

Spain’s defensive unit, including Rodri, Porro, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsí, and Fabián Ruiz, won 25 of 34 duels and made 44 defensive interventions. This performance marked the third consecutive tournament victory for Spain’s manager, Luis de la Fuente, against France, following wins in the 2024 European Championship and the 2025 UEFA Nations League semi-finals.

France manager Didier Deschamps is set to step down from his role after the tournament. The defeat marks a stark contrast to Spain’s defensive solidity, which has seen them concede just one goal in their first six World Cup matches. Spain, the reigning European champions, will now await the winner of the England-Argentina semi-final in Atlanta on Wednesday.