France, who had produced some of the most impressive football of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, looked unrecognizable in the semifinals as Spain delivered a commanding performance to book their place in the final. Combining relentless pace, disciplined defending, and incisive attacking play, the 2010 world champions defeated two-time champions France 2-0. Spain will now face the winner of the other semifinal between Argentina and England in the title decider.
The semifinal at AT&T Stadium in Dallas began at a high tempo, with both teams creating attacking opportunities. France midfielder Adrien Rabiot received a yellow card in the 10th minute for fouling Dani Olmo. Ten minutes later, Spain were awarded a penalty after French defender Lucas Digne brought down Lamine Yamal inside the box.
Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted from the spot in the 22nd minute to give Spain a 1-0 lead. The goal also saw Oyarzabal surpass David Villa`s long-standing record from the 2008-09 season, becoming Spain`s highest scorer in a single season with 14 goals.
France suffered another major setback in the 30th minute when influential center-back William Saliba was forced off with an injury. He was replaced by Maxence Lacroix. Although the French camp expressed frustration over several refereeing decisions during the opening half, Spain went into the break with a deserved one-goal advantage.
France coach Didier Deschamps introduced Manu Kone in place of Rabiot at the start of the second half in an attempt to change the momentum. However, Spain effectively sealed the contest in the 58th minute. Pedro Porro exchanged a quick one-two with Dani Olmo before finishing clinically inside the penalty area to double Spain`s lead.
Trailing by two goals, France responded by bringing on Desire Doue in place of Bradley Barcola. Lamine Yamal thought he had added a third in the 64th minute, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Later, Deschamps introduced Rayan Cherki and Theo Hernández for Michael Olise and Lucas Digne in the 72nd minute, but the changes failed to spark a comeback.
Spain`s defense produced a superb collective display, keeping Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise largely quiet throughout the match. France managed just one shot on target, highlighting the effectiveness of Spain`s defensive organization.
The final whistle confirmed a comprehensive 2-0 victory for Spain, sending them into the 2026 World Cup final while bringing France`s impressive campaign to an end at the semifinal stage.
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