Spain produced a commanding display to defeat tournament favourites France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal, securing a place in the final with a clinical performance.
Spain took the lead in the 22nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty after Lamine Yamal was fouled inside the box. The Spaniards doubled their advantage in the 58th minute as Pedro Porro finished off a well-worked attacking move, leaving France with a mountain to climb.
France, featuring attacking stars Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, struggled to break down Spain’s disciplined defence despite enjoying spells of possession. Spain remained composed throughout the contest and successfully protected its two-goal lead to book a place in the tournament’s showpiece event.
The victory sends Spain into its first FIFA World Cup final since winning the title in South Africa in 2010. France, which had been aiming for a third consecutive World Cup final appearance, will now play in the third-place playoff.
Spain will meet the winner of the second semifinal between England and Argentina in the World Cup final, while France will face the losing side in the third-place match. LORD
