Spain ends France’s World Cup dream with 2-0 semi-final victory
By Francis Muli, July 15, 2026Spain booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after producing a composed 2-0 victory over France in Tuesday night’s semi-final, ending Les Bleus’ hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.
Luis de la Fuente’s side controlled large spells of the contest, frustrating France’s star-studded attack before capitalising on defensive mistakes to secure a deserved victory.
Spain took the lead in the 22nd minute after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the penalty area by Lucas Digne. Referee Iván Barton pointed to the spot after a VAR review, and striker Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted from 12 yards to register his fifth goal of the tournament.
The goal handed France their first deficit of the tournament and left Didier Deschamps’ men chasing the game against a Spanish side that has built its World Cup campaign on defensive discipline and slick possession football.
France struggled to create clear-cut opportunities despite boasting attacking talents including Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise. Spain’s compact defensive shape and controlled midfield play repeatedly denied Les Bleus space to operate.
Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute when right-back Pedro Porro combined brilliantly with Dani Olmo before firing home to make it 2-0 and put one foot in the World Cup final.
France attempted to respond through a series of substitutions, with Theo Hernández and Rayan Cherki introduced as Deschamps searched for a route back into the match.
However, Spain continued to dictate proceedings, with Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Rodri controlling the tempo while limiting France to few meaningful chances. A potential third Spanish goal was later ruled out for a marginal offside.
The defeat marked a disappointing end to an otherwise impressive tournament for France, who entered the semi-final unbeaten after victories over Senegal, Iraq, Norway, Sweden, Paraguay and Morocco.
Spain, meanwhile, advanced to their first FIFA World Cup final since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010. La Roja will now face the winner of the second semi-final between England and Argentina in Sunday’s showpiece.