Spain have booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after a commanding 2-0 victory over France in Tuesday’s semi-final, moving within one win of lifting the trophy for the second time in their history.
The European champions produced another disciplined display at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, ending France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal won a spot-kick following a foul by Lucas Digne. Pedro Porro doubled Spain’s advantage in the 58th minute after combining brilliantly with Dani Olmo to cap a flowing team move.
Despite boasting attacking stars including Kylian Mbappé, France struggled to break down Spain’s organised defence. Goalkeeper Unai Simón delivered another assured performance as Spain recorded yet another clean sheet in a tournament where they have looked among the most complete teams.
The victory sends Spain into their first men’s World Cup final since they won the tournament in South Africa in 2010. It also extends an extraordinary unbeaten run in regular time to 37 matches, equalling Italy’s all-time record for men’s international football.
Spain’s impressive route to the final
Spain’s journey to the final has showcased both attacking quality and defensive resilience.
After progressing from the group stage, La Roja defeated Austria 3-0 in the Round of 32 before edging Portugal 1-0 in the Round of 16. They then overcame Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-finals before eliminating France in the last four.
Throughout the tournament, Spain have blended experienced campaigners such as Rodri, Dani Olmo and Oyarzabal with the youthful brilliance of Lamine Yamal, whose creativity has become one of the defining stories of the World Cup.
Final awaits
Spain will now face the winner of the second semi-final between Argentina and England in Sunday’s World Cup final in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
France, meanwhile, will take part in the third-place playoff.
