Spain have secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after beating France 2-0 in the semi-final at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The victory sends the Spanish side to their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in 2010.
With this result, Spain move one step closer to winning their second FIFA World Cup title. They will now face either England or Argentina in the final, which is scheduled to take place at the New York/New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.
France entered the match as one of the tournament favorites. The former world champions won the World Cup in 2018 and finished as runners-up in 2022. After the defeat, France will compete in the third-place playoff in Miami on Saturday.
The semi-final began with both teams looking for early control. Spain enjoyed slightly more possession and created better scoring opportunities throughout the game. The team remained organized in defense and limited France’s attacking threat despite facing several attempts on goal.
The opening goal came in the 22nd minute after Spain were awarded a penalty. French defender Lucas Digne brought down Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area after catching the young winger’s leg. The referee immediately pointed to the spot.
Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up to take the penalty. French goalkeeper Mike Maignan guessed the correct direction, but Oyarzabal’s powerful strike found the back of the net. The goal gave Spain a deserved lead and marked Oyarzabal’s fifth goal of the tournament.
France tried to respond before halftime but struggled to create clear chances. The Spanish defense stayed compact and prevented the French attack from finding space in dangerous areas.
Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro. The defender finished calmly after exchanging passes with Dani Olmo. Porro started the move with a quick one-two before placing his shot beyond Maignan.
The second goal gave Spain greater control of the match. France increased the pressure during the closing stages, but the Spanish defense remained disciplined. Although France managed three shots on target from 10 attempts, they could not find a way past the goalkeeper.
Spain finished the match with 51 percent possession and made better use of their opportunities. Their balanced performance in attack and defense proved enough to secure an important victory.
The win also extended Spain’s impressive unbeaten run to 37 matches. During that period, the team has recorded 30 wins and seven draws. The streak equals Italy’s long-standing European record.
The result reflects the consistency Spain have shown throughout the tournament. Strong teamwork, solid defending, and clinical finishing have helped the team reach the final without losing a match.
In other related news also read Spain Denies US Access to Bases for Iran Strikes
Spain will now prepare for the biggest game of the tournament. The final will decide whether the former world champions can add a second FIFA World Cup title to their historic success in 2010. With confidence high and momentum on their side, Spain will be aiming to complete another memorable World Cup campaign.
