Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup final for the first time in 16 years after producing a composed 2-0 victory over France in Tuesday’s semifinal, ending Les Bleus’ bid for a third consecutive appearance in the tournament’s showpiece.
Luis de la Fuente’s side struck in each half, with Mikel Oyarzabal converting a 22nd-minute penalty before Pedro Porro doubled the advantage in the 58th minute to send La Roja into Sunday’s final against either England or Argentina.
Spain’s opener came after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was fouled inside the penalty area by Lucas Digne. Following a VAR review, referee Iván Barton pointed to the spot, and Oyarzabal calmly sent Mike Maignan the wrong way to hand Spain a deserved lead.
France attempted to respond through Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, but Spain’s disciplined defensive structure repeatedly frustrated Didier Deschamps’ attack.
The decisive moment arrived 13 minutes into the second half when Pedro Porro combined brilliantly with Dani Olmo before firing beyond Maignan to make it 2-0 and effectively seal Spain’s place in the final. The Spanish full-back was later named Player of the Match after an outstanding display at both ends of the pitch.
Spain’s defensive excellence was once again on full display as they recorded their sixth clean sheet in seven matches at the tournament while limiting one of the competition’s most dangerous attacking teams to few clear-cut opportunities.
The victory also extended Spain’s remarkable unbeaten run to 37 matches dating back to March 2024 and secured the nation’s first World Cup final appearance since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010.
France’s elimination ended an impressive era of consistency after reaching the 2018 final as champions and the 2022 final as runners-up.
Spain will now prepare for a blockbuster final against either England or defending champions Argentina as they chase a second FIFA World Cup title.