Spain Defeats France to Reach World Cup Final for Second Time

On Tuesday evening, Spain secured a 2-0 victory over France in the World Cup semifinals, advancing to the final for only the second time in their history. The match took place at the Dallas stadium in Arlington, Texas, where Spain, the reigning European champions, completely neutralized the French team, the defending World Cup runners-up and tournament favorites. Spain will face the winner of the England-Argentina semifinal on Sunday in New Jersey.

Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a penalty after a foul by France's Lucas Digne on Spain's Lamine Yamal. Shortly after, France's key defender William Saliba was forced off due to injury. Pedro Poro doubled Spain's lead in the 58th minute, securing the win. This marks the third consecutive knockout-stage semifinal where Spain has eliminated France, including Euro 2024 and the 2025 Nations League.

Despite France's star-studded lineup featuring Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise, they failed to find solutions against Spain's defense. The defeat came on Bastille Day, a significant national holiday for France. Spain's Lamine Yamal maintained his perfect knockout record against Mbappé, having previously eliminated him in Euro 2024 and the Nations League.

This final appearance is Spain's first since their 2010 World Cup victory. Coach Luis de la Fuente and his team now await their final opponent, either England, led by Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, or Argentina, the reigning world champions led by Lionel Messi. The match also highlighted a compelling duel between Yamal and Mbappé, with Yamal maintaining dominance in their encounters.

The game featured several key moments, including France's early yellow cards, Saliba's injury substitution, and tactical changes by both coaches. France struggled to create significant chances, with Mbappé's frustration evident as he received a yellow card late in the match. Spain's disciplined performance and clinical finishing earned them a deserved place in the World Cup final.