Spain secured a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final with a 2-0 victory over France in the semifinal on July 14 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The result ended France's bid for a third world title and sent Spain into the final against the winner of the England-Argentina semifinal.
Spain controlled the match from the start with a disciplined defensive approach that limited France's attacking threats. Kylian Mbappe and supporting players struggled to create clear chances against Spain's organized back line. Spain recorded a clean sheet and extended its unbeaten run to 37 games under coach Luis de la Fuente.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring in the 22nd minute from the penalty spot after Lamine Yamal drew the foul in the box. The goal gave Spain an early advantage that it maintained through strong midfield control and quick transitions. Pedro Porro doubled the lead in the 58th minute with a finish assisted by Dani Olmo. Porro was named FIFA Man of the Match for his overall contribution.
France managed only two shots on target despite its high powered attack featuring Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Michael Olise. The team created limited opportunities and could not break down Spain's structure. Spain added pressure with effective use of set pieces and maintained possession to close out the win.
Spain has now kept six clean sheets in seven matches during the tournament. The side advances to its first World Cup final since winning the title in 2010. France was eliminated from title contention and will compete in the third-place match.
Key player connections defined the outcome. Yamal's involvement in the penalty linked directly to Oyarzabal's finish. Olmo's assist connected to Porro's goal. Spain's back line, supported by midfielders, neutralized France's forwards and created the platform for the attacking players to capitalize on opportunities.
The match highlighted Spain's balanced approach under de la Fuente. The team combined defensive solidity with timely scoring to overcome a strong French side. France's inability to convert possession into meaningful attacks proved costly in the high stakes semifinal setting.
Spain will prepare for the final on Sunday with momentum from the dominant performance. The result positions the 2010 champions as one of the teams to watch in the closing stages of the tournament. France must regroup for the third place game while reflecting on an early exit from title contention.