Dallas [US], July 15 – Spain advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after defeating France 2-0 in the first semi-final on Tuesday ending the French side’s title hopes and booking its first appearance in the tournament’s final since 2010.
Playing at Dallas Stadium in the United States Spain took the lead in the 22nd minute after France’s Lucas Digne conceded a penalty. Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted from the spot to put the European champions ahead.
Spain doubled its advantage in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro. The defender combined with Dani Olmo in a well worked one-two move before collecting the return pass and finishing clinically past the French goalkeeper.
France pushed for a way back into the contest but failed to break down Spain’s disciplined defence leaving the 2018 world champions eliminated in the semi-finals.
The victory sends Spain into its second World Cup final having last reached the championship match in 2010 when it lifted its maiden world title. The Spanish side also entered the tournament as the reigning European champions.
Spain will face the winner of the second semi-final between defending world champions Argentina and England scheduled for Wednesday night. The World Cup final will be played on Sunday.
For France, the defeat ends hope of securing a third World Cup title. The team will instead compete in the third-place playoff on Saturday.
Spain’s composed display against one of the tournaments favourites underlined its credentials as a leading contender for the 2026 FIFA World Cup crown.
