Spain advanced to their first FIFA World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 2010 with a commanding 2-0 win over France in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday.

The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute after Lucas Digne conceded a penalty by fouling Lamine Yamal inside the box. Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the spot to give Spain an early lead. From that point, Spain’s midfield controlled possession and dictated the tempo, limiting France’s attacking opportunities.

Spain sealed the victory in the second half when Pedro Porro capitalized on a French defensive error to score the decisive second goal.

The win continues Spain’s recent success against France, having also eliminated them on the way to winning the UEFA European Championship in 2024. Spain will now face either England—whom they defeated in the Euro 2024 final—or defending champions Argentina in the World Cup final.

For France, the defeat marks the end of an era under head coach Didier Deschamps, who had already confirmed this tournament would be his last in charge. Deschamps guided France to the 2018 World Cup title and a runner-up finish in 2022, but his tenure concludes with semifinal disappointment.

Despite France entering the match with one of the tournament’s most prolific attacks, Spain’s disciplined defense proved decisive. Luis de la Fuente’s side has conceded just one goal throughout the tournament and recorded six clean sheets, underlining its defensive dominance. Spain successfully neutralized a French attack led by Golden Boot frontrunner Kylian Mbappé, tournament assist leader Michael Olise, and Ousmane Dembélé, who entered the semifinal with five goals.

Spain’s combination of tactical discipline, defensive resilience, and clinical finishing has now earned them a place in their first World Cup final in 16 years.

Reported by

Obed Yaw Agyei