Spain returned to the FIFA World Cup final for the first time since its historic 2010 triumph after defeating France 2 to 0 on Tuesday, combining clinical finishing with an outstanding defensive performance to end the hopes of one of the tournament favorites.
Mikel Oyarzabal converted an early penalty before Pedro Porro doubled Spain’s advantage in the second half as La Roja frustrated France’s star studded attack throughout the semifinal at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA.
The victory sends Spain into Sunday’s championship match against either defending champion Argentina or England, who meet in the second semifinal on Wednesday in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
France, ranked No. 1 by FIFA entering the tournament, will instead compete in Saturday’s third place playoff in Miami Gardens.
What we know so far
Spain seized control in the 22nd minute after teenage star Lamine Yamal forced a defensive mistake inside the penalty area. The 18 year old won a penalty when France defender Lucas Digne fouled him while attempting to clear the ball.
Oyarzabal calmly converted the spot kick for his fifth goal of the tournament, giving Spain the first lead either side had surrendered during their seven World Cup matches.
Spain doubled its advantage in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro. After exchanging passes with Dani Olmo, the defender finished confidently past goalkeeper Mike Maignan to score his second international goal.
Moments later, Yamal believed he had added a third goal, but video review ruled the effort out for a marginal offside decision.
France created few clear opportunities despite featuring attacking stars Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola. Spain’s disciplined defensive structure limited Les Bleus to minimal scoring chances and secured its sixth clean sheet in seven matches during the tournament.
The result also marked Spain’s third consecutive victory over France in a major tournament semifinal, following wins at the 2024 European Championship and the Nations League.
What authorities are saying
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente praised his squad’s balance between attacking creativity and defensive discipline after another composed knockout performance.
France coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged Spain’s efficiency after his tactical adjustments, including second half substitutions, failed to change the course of the match.
The defeat denied Deschamps the opportunity to guide France into a third consecutive World Cup final, a feat achieved by only two nations previously.
Why this matters
Spain’s return to the World Cup final represents the latest milestone in the country’s remarkable resurgence. After years of rebuilding following its golden generation, Spain has once again emerged as one of international football’s dominant forces by blending experienced leaders with a new wave of young talent.
Lamine Yamal continues to symbolize that transition. Although he did not score, his intelligence, composure and creativity proved decisive in earning the opening penalty and unsettling one of Europe’s most experienced defenses.
For France, the defeat ends an impressive campaign in which the team entered the semifinal with one of the tournament’s most prolific attacks. Spain’s defensive organization exposed the importance of controlling midfield possession and limiting space against elite forwards.
What happens next
Spain will attempt to capture its second FIFA World Cup title when it faces either Argentina or England in Sunday’s final.
France will look to finish the tournament on a positive note when it meets the loser of Wednesday’s semifinal in the third place match.
Attention will now turn to whether Spain can complete one of the nation’s most successful international football cycles by adding another World Cup crown to its recent European Championship and Nations League successes.
Spain’s victory was built on far more than goals. Its tactical discipline, patient possession and organized defending prevented France from establishing any attacking rhythm. Rather than engaging in an open contest against one of the world’s most dangerous forward lines, Spain controlled the tempo and forced France into low quality opportunities.
The emergence of players such as Yamal alongside experienced performers like Oyarzabal demonstrates how effectively Spain has refreshed its squad without abandoning the possession based identity that brought global success in the past. If Spain reproduces this level of defensive organization in the final, it will enter the championship match with a strong chance of lifting the World Cup for the second time.
Sources: Associated Press, Flashscore USA, NBC Sports
