European champions Spain produced a disciplined all-round performance to defeat France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal, securing their place in the title clash.
Spain took the lead midway through the first half when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty after France conceded a foul inside the box. The goal marked Oyarzabal’s fifth of the tournament and handed France their first deficit of the World Cup.
France’s problems deepened before halftime as defender William Saliba was forced off with a back injury. Despite boasting an attack featuring Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise, France struggled to create clear opportunities, failing to register a shot on target in the opening 45 minutes.
Spain doubled their advantage early in the second half through Pedro Porro, who finished off a well-worked passing move involving Dani Olmo. The European champions controlled possession and defended resolutely to deny France any route back into the contest.
Coach Didier Deschamps introduced several attacking substitutes, including Desire Doue, Theo Hernandez and Rayan Cherki, but Spain’s organised defence stood firm to preserve the clean sheet.
The victory sends Spain into the World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the second semifinal between Argentina and England. Spain have impressed throughout the tournament, conceding only one goal so far while combining defensive solidity with attacking flair.
For France, the defeat ends their hopes of a third World Cup title and leaves them preparing for the third-place playoff. It also marks one of the final matches in charge for Deschamps, who is set to step down after the tournament.
