Spain defeats France 2-0 to reach World Cup final

Spain advanced to the FIFA World Cup final for the first time since 2010 with a commanding 2-0 victory over France in a semifinal match played on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The win sets up a championship showdown on Sunday, July 19, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, against the winner of the second semifinal between Argentina and England.

The Spanish victory was built on tactical discipline and midfield control, effectively neutralizing France's celebrated attacking talent. The opening goal came from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after 19-year-old forward Lamine Yamal pressured French defender Lucas Digne, resulting in contact and a penalty. Captain Mikel Oyarzabal converted the spot kick for his team-leading fifth goal of the tournament.

Spain sealed the result in the 58th minute with a fluid team goal. Fullback Pedro Porro finished a precise passing sequence, combining with midfielder Dani Olmo before sliding his shot past French goalkeeper Mike Maignan. The goal capped a performance defined by Spanish dominance, with midfielders Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, and Olmo dictating the tempo and stifling French stars Kylian Mbappé,...