2026 World Cup/ Spain stuns France to reach World Cup Final
Spain delivered a masterclass in defensive discipline and clinical finishing to defeat France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final at Dallas Stadium. La Roja now advances to Sunday’s final at New York New Jersey Stadium, where they will face the winner of the England-Argentina clash.
France entered as slight favorites, but Spain’s flawless defending neutralized Kylian Mbappe’s threat on the counter.
The breakthrough arrived when Lamine Yamal, celebrating his 19th birthday, drew a foul from Lucas Digne inside the box. Mikel Oyarzabal confidently converted the resulting penalty past Mike Maignan, who had built a reputation for saving spot-kicks.
Pedro Porro then sealed the victory with a second-half strike, punishing a French side that struggled to break down Spain’s resolute backline. Les Bleus created few clear chances throughout the contest, as La Roja controlled the tempo and dictated play.
Spain will therefore contest their first World Cup final since 2010, when Andres Iniesta’s extra-time goal secured glory against the Netherlands at Soccer City. That triumph remains their only previous appearance in the showpiece match.
For France, the defeat ends their campaign earlier than expected, leaving Mbappe and his teammates to reflect on a missed opportunity.
