Spain settled one of the 2026 World Cup's biggest ties in their favour, beating France 2-0 in a commanding semi-final win at Dallas Stadium, sending "La Roja" into the World Cup final for the first time since the 2010 edition they went on to win. (ESPN)
A penalty opens the door
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring for Spain from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute, after French defender Lucas Digne clipped Lamine Yamal as he tried to clear the ball. Oyarzabal confidently powered his shot into the top right corner, giving France goalkeeper Mike Maignan no chance — his fifth goal of the tournament, the most of any Spanish player. (Opta Analyst)
Porro ends France's hopes
In the 58th minute, Pedro Porro doubled the lead, drifting into space and collecting a pass from Dani Olmo before coolly slotting it home — killing off any French hopes of a comeback. (ESPN)
Mbappé smothered by the Spanish defence
Despite entering the match as the tournament's Golden Boot leader, Kylian Mbappé found little room to operate, as Spain repeatedly crowded the French captain whenever he tried to break forward, limiting his touches in dangerous areas throughout the game — further proof of the elite defensive level shown by Luis de la Fuente's side. (Yahoo Sports)
A date with history in the final
With this win, Spain set up a final against the winner of England vs Argentina, chasing a second world title after 2010. An exceptional run for a side that has conceded very little all tournament, and now looks closer than ever to being crowned champions.
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