Spain/France: Spain continued their remarkable run at the FIFA World Cup 2026 by defeating France 2-0 in the semi-final at Arlington, Texas, earning a place in the championship match for only the second time in the nation’s history. The victory also marked Spain’s third consecutive triumph over France in major international competitions.
The Spanish side took control of the contest in the opening half after striker Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted a penalty, awarded following a foul on teenage sensation Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area. The goal further strengthened Oyarzabal’s impressive scoring record and placed him among Spain’s all-time leading international goal scorers.
France attempted to regroup after the break, but Spain’s relentless pressing and disciplined defending denied the 2018 world champions any clear opportunities. Full-back Pedro Porro then capped off a swift attacking move by scoring Spain’s second goal early in the second half, leaving Les Bleus with a mountain to climb.
French hopes suffered another setback after defender William Saliba was forced to leave the field because of a back injury before halftime. Manager Didier Deschamps responded with multiple substitutions, introducing fresh legs in midfield and attack, but the changes failed to alter the course of the match.
Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón produced several key saves to preserve his side’s clean sheet, while the defensive unit successfully contained France’s dangerous frontline featuring Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise.
With the victory, Spain stretched their unbeaten run to 37 matches, equalling Italy’s long-standing international record. Defender Pedro Porro was named Player of the Match for his influential display at both ends of the pitch.
Spain will now head to the FIFA World Cup 2026 final on July 19, where they will meet the winner of the second semi-final between England and Argentina. The result also reinforces Spain’s status as one of the tournament’s standout teams after an impressive campaign built on attacking football and defensive solidity.
