Spain booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final with a thrilling 2-0 win over France in Tuesday’s semi-final at Dallas Stadium.
Luis de la Fuente’s side produced a disciplined performance to overcome the pre-match favourites and move within one win of lifting the World Cup for the second time in the nation’s history.
Spain will now face either England or defending champions Argentina in Sunday’s final.
Spain take control
Spain took the lead midway through the first half after France defender Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area while attempting to clear the ball.
Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and confidently converted the resulting penalty to hand Spain a deserved advantage.
The goal allowed Spain to settle into the match, with De la Fuente’s team dominating possession and limiting France’s attacking threats despite the presence of stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise.
France struggled to create clear-cut chances before the break as Spain’s organised defence continued its impressive tournament form.
Porro seals famous victory
France were expected to respond after the interval, but Spain doubled their lead instead.
Pedro Porro combined brilliantly with Dani Olmo before finishing calmly at the near post to make it 2-0 and put Spain firmly in control.
The goal left Didier Deschamps’ side needing a comeback, but Spain remained compact and composed, denying France any meaningful route back into the contest.
The Spanish defence once again stood firm, conceding only once throughout the tournament, as they comfortably protected their advantage until the final whistle.
The defeat ends France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final.
It also marks the closing chapter of Didier Deschamps’ 14-year spell as France head coach, with the 57-year-old set to leave his position after Saturday’s third-place play-off.
Spain, meanwhile, advance to Sunday’s final in New Jersey, where they will meet the winners of the second semi-final between England and Argentina as they chase another world title.