Spain delivered a stunning performance to defeat tournament favourites France 2-0 on Tuesday, securing a place in the World Cup final with a tactical masterclass that dashed Les Bleus’ hopes of a third title.
Mikel Oyarzabal’s first-half penalty and a 58th-minute goal from Pedro Porro sealed a clinical victory for the reigning European champions at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
With this win, Spain—World Cup champions in 2010—advance to Sunday’s final in New Jersey, where they will meet either Argentina or England.
Despite France’s impressive, high-scoring run to the semi-finals, their formidable front line of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola, and Michael Olise was neutralized by Spain’s disciplined and powerful approach.
Spain, who had beaten France in their previous two competitive meetings, were true to their attacking promise made before the match. Their midfield, marshaled by Manchester City’s Rodri alongside Fabian Ruiz and Dani Olmo, dominated proceedings and never allowed France to settle.
The Spanish trio quickly overwhelmed Adrien Rabiot and Aurelien Tchouameni, dictating the tempo and controlling early possession. Frustration set in early for France, with Rabiot booked within nine minutes for a foul on Olmo.
Although France looked dangerous on the break—most notably when Pau Cubarsi’s last-ditch block denied Mbappe in the 16th minute—Spain’s early dominance soon paid off. In the 20th minute, Marc Cucurella’s cross caused confusion in the French defence. Lucas Digne’s failed clearance resulted in a penalty after he fouled Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, and Oyarzabal confidently slotted home from the spot.
France’s problems worsened when defender William Saliba limped off injured after 31 minutes. Spain continued to threaten, with Dayot Upamecano blocking a slick Spanish move just before halftime.
France enjoyed their best spell late in the first half, but Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón kept them at bay, denying Mbappé after a clever through ball from Rabiot.
The second half saw Spain regain control, with French coach Didier Deschamps unable to stem the Spanish midfield’s influence. In the 58th minute, a brilliant exchange between Porro and Olmo allowed the Tottenham defender to slot home Spain’s second goal.
Spain thought they had a third just minutes later, but Lamine Yamal’s effort was ruled out for offside. Despite several French substitutions, Spain’s defence held firm, with Mbappé’s late effort blocked by Simón at the near post.
Mbappé’s frustration boiled over in the closing moments, earning him a booking as Spain closed out a memorable win.
Looking ahead, England and Argentina will meet in the other semi-final in Atlanta on Wednesday, renewing one of football’s fiercest rivalries. Their history is marked by memorable moments and controversy, including Diego Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” goal at the 1986 World Cup.
England captain Harry Kane, a contender for the Golden Boot alongside Messi and Mbappé, insisted his team would not be distracted by the occasion’s emotion. “From a player’s point of view it’s us against a great team, who are smart, who are tactical, who know how to buy fouls, know how to slow the game down—like many different teams you come up against throughout your whole career,” Kane told ITV.
