Spain are through to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after a commanding 2-0 victory over France in Tuesday’s semi-final at Arlington, Texas.
La Roja delivered another impressive performance, with Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro finding the back of the net to end France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.
Spain took the lead in the 22nd minute after teenage star Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the penalty area by Lucas Digne. Oyarzabal calmly converted the resulting spot-kick to register his fifth goal of the tournament.
Luis de la Fuente’s side doubled their advantage in the second half when Pedro Porro finished off a brilliant passing move created by Dani Olmo, giving Spain full control of the match.
Despite boasting attacking stars like Kylian Mbappe, France struggled to break through Spain’s well-organised defence, with goalkeeper Unai Simón and defender Marc Cucurella producing crucial interventions to keep a clean sheet.
According to FIFA, Spain deserved their victory after frustrating France defensively while taking their chances at the other end.
The win sends Spain into Sunday’s World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between England and Argentina.
France will now compete in the third-place playoff, with Mbappe hoping to end the tournament on a positive note.
Spain, who last won the FIFA World Cup in 2010, are now one victory away from lifting football’s biggest trophy for a second time.
Source: FIFA
