Spain Reach First World Cup Final Since 2010 After 2-0 Win Over France

The Spain vs France FIFA World Cup semi-final lived up to its blockbuster billing, but it was La Roja who once again proved why they came into the tournament as outright favourites. A composed 2-0 victory over France on Tuesday night booked Spain’s place in their first FIFA World Cup final since lifting the trophy in South Africa 16 years ago.

ALSO READ: Mbappe vs Yamal: Who Was Better as a Teenager?

Heading into the match, much of the attention centred on Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, arguably the most feared attacking trio left in the competition. Instead, Spain produced a tactical masterclass, neutralising France’s biggest stars while once again showing the maturity and composure that have defined their remarkable World Cup campaign.

Bet on Spain to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup at 1.65.

Spain’s Defence Wins Championships

If there were any doubts about whether Spain had enough attacking firepower to win the World Cup, their defence has answered every question.

Luis de la Fuente’s side entered the semi-final having conceded just one goal all tournament, and they somehow improved on that record against one of the world’s most dangerous attacks. Mbappé, Dembélé and Olise were kept largely quiet throughout the contest as Spain’s defensive organisation frustrated France from the opening whistle.

The Spanish back four rarely allowed France space in behind, while the midfield controlled possession and prevented Les Bleus from building any sustained momentum.

It was another reminder that tournaments are often won by the teams that defend the best.

Oyarzabal & Porro Deliver

Spain took control midway through the first half.

Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal drove into the penalty area and won a penalty after being brought down, allowing Mikel Oyarzabal to calmly convert from the spot and give Spain the lead.

France attempted to respond after the interval, but Spain remained patient.

Just before the hour mark, Pedro Porro finished off a flowing move after combining brilliantly with Dani Olmo to double Spain’s advantage and leave Didier Deschamps’ side with a mountain to climb.

Although Yamal had a goal ruled out for offside, the Barcelona teenager once again demonstrated why he has become one of the faces of this tournament.

France Finally Come Up Short

France had looked almost unstoppable throughout the tournament.

Their star-studded attack had overwhelmed opponents in previous rounds, while Mbappé continued his pursuit of more World Cup history.

But on Tuesday, they simply ran into a better team.

Spain’s relentless pressing denied France time on the ball, while every attempted counterattack was quickly shut down. The creativity that had carried Les Bleus through earlier rounds was nowhere to be found, and frustration grew as the match wore on.

For France, it marks a bitter end to another impressive campaign and ends their hopes of reaching a third consecutive FIFA World Cup final. They will now turn their attention to the third-place play-off.

One Step Away From History

Spain’s victory extends an extraordinary unbeaten run and underlines why many now consider them favourites to lift the trophy. Having already eliminated Portugal, Belgium and now France, La Roja have navigated arguably the toughest route to the final.

Standing between Spain and a second World Cup title is the winner of Wednesday’s semi-final between England and Argentina.

Whether it is Harry Kane’s England or Lionel Messi’s Argentina, Spain will enter Sunday’s showpiece full of confidence.