Spain beat France 2-0 to book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after a disciplined and clinical display in Tuesday’s semi-final at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
According to Channels Television, citing AFP, the reigning European champions frustrated tournament favourites France before sealing victory through goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro.
Spain took the lead in the 20th minute after Lamine Yamal was brought down in the penalty area by Lucas Digne. Oyarzabal calmly converted the resulting spot-kick, giving Spain the advantage after an impressive opening spell.
France suffered another setback when defender William Saliba was forced off with an injury before half-time, while Spain continued to dominate possession through Rodri, Fabian Ruiz and Dani Olmo.
The decisive second goal arrived in the 58th minute. Porro exchanged passes with Olmo before finishing past goalkeeper Mike Maignan to double Spain’s lead and leave Didier Deschamps’ side with a mountain to climb.
France struggled to break down Spain’s organised defence despite the attacking threat of captain Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola and Michael Olise. Mbappe’s best opportunity was denied by goalkeeper Unai Simón, while Spain also had a third goal ruled out for offside.
The victory sends Spain into their second World Cup final since winning the tournament in 2010. They will face either England or Argentina, who meet in the second semi-final on Wednesday, in Sunday’s final in New Jersey.
Ahead of that clash, England captain Harry Kane said his side would remain focused despite the historic rivalry with Argentina, describing the South Americans as a smart and tactically disciplined team.