Arlington, Texas, July 15,2026: Spain ended France’s hopes of a third FIFA World Cup title with a commanding 2-0 victory in the semi-final on Tuesday, booking a place in the final against either England or Argentina.
The European champions produced a disciplined defensive display and clinical finishing to overcome tournament favourites France at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Mikel Oyarzabal gave Spain the lead from the penalty spot in the first half after France left-back Lucas Digne fouled winger Lamine Yamal inside the box. Oyarzabal calmly converted the spot-kick, netting his fifth goal of the tournament.
France suffered another setback moments later when defender William Saliba was forced off with a recurrence of a lower back injury and was replaced by Maxence Lacroix.
Despite boasting one of the tournament’s most formidable attacks, Didier Deschamps’ side struggled to create meaningful chances and failed to register a shot on target before halftime.
Spain doubled their advantage early in the second half through Pedro Porro, who finished off a well-worked move involving Dani Olmo with a composed strike past goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
Deschamps responded by introducing several attacking substitutes, including Desire Doue, Theo Hernandez and Rayan Cherki, but France were unable to break down Spain’s resolute defence.
Spain, who have conceded just one goal throughout the tournament, moved to within one victory of lifting the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup and securing their second world title after their triumph in South Africa in 2010.
The defeat marks a disappointing end to France’s campaign after reaching the previous two World Cup finals, winning the title in 2018 before finishing runners-up to Argentina in Qatar four years later.
The loss also means outgoing France coach Didier Deschamps, who will step down after 14 years in charge, will conclude his tenure with the third-place playoff.
Meanwhile, the second semi-final will see England face defending champions Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday, with the winner advancing to meet Spain in the World Cup final.
England captain Harry Kane said his side would not be distracted by the historic rivalry between the two nations, insisting the focus remained on overcoming a tactically astute Argentine team led by Lionel Messi.
