Spain Sink France to Reach First World Cup Final Since 2010

Spain Sink France to Reach First World Cup Final Since 2010

Oyarzabal and Porro Strike as La Roja End French Hopes in Semi-final Clash

Spain produced a disciplined and clinical display to defeat France 2-0 and secure their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, ending Les Bleus' hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup showpiece.

In front of a packed crowd at AT&T Stadium, Spain controlled the key moments of the semi-final as goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro sealed a famous victory and set up a title showdown against either Argentina or England.

The breakthrough arrived in the 22nd minute following brilliant work from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. The 19-year-old capitalised on a defensive mistake by Lucas Digne and was brought down inside the penalty area, leaving the referee with no choice but to award a spot-kick.

Oyarzabal stepped up confidently and converted the penalty to give Spain the lead, scoring his fifth goal of the tournament and becoming one of the competition's standout performers.

France struggled to impose themselves on the match despite boasting one of the strongest attacks in the tournament. Kylian Mbappe found little space against Spain's organised defence, while the midfield battle was largely controlled by Luis de la Fuente's side.

Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute with a superb team move. Pedro Porro exchanged passes with Dani Olmo before driving forward and firing a powerful shot into the net, leaving the French goalkeeper with no chance.

La Roja nearly added a third goal moments later when Yamal found the back of the net, but the effort was ruled out for a marginal offside decision.

France pushed forward in search of a comeback, but Spain remained compact and disciplined at the back. The French attack failed to create clear-cut opportunities as Spain comfortably saw out the closing stages.

The victory continues Spain's recent dominance over France in major tournaments and sends them into their first World Cup final since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010.

Match Result

Spain 2-0 France

Goals

Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain, Penalty) – 22'

Pedro Porro (Spain) – 58'

Key Moment

Lamine Yamal's run into the penalty area forced the foul that led to Spain's opening goal, giving La Roja control of the semi-final.

Spain will now prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final at MetLife Stadium, while France must settle for a third-place playoff after falling short in their bid for another World Cup final appearance.