Spain secured a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final with an impressive 2-0 victory over France in the semi-finals, ending Les Bleus’ hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.
Mikel Oyarzabal gave La Roja the lead in the 22nd minute, calmly converting from the penalty spot after Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the area by Lucas Digne. It was Oyarzabal’s fifth goal of the tournament, putting Spain in control before halftime.
France struggled to break through Spain’s disciplined defence after the restart, and the Spaniards doubled their advantage in the 58th minute. Dani Olmo delivered a superb pass into Pedro Porro, who finished confidently to put the European champions firmly in command.
Despite boasting attacking stars such as Kylian Mbappé, France failed to mount a comeback as Spain controlled possession and limited clear-cut opportunities, frustrating Didier Deschamps’ side throughout the contest.
The victory sends Spain into Sunday’s World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between England and Argentina, while France will compete in the third-place playoff.
Oluwagbemisola Babalola
