The essentials
Spain beats France 2-0 in semifinal to reach World Cup final.
Spain advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final by defeating France 2-0 in the semifinal in Arlington, Texas. The victory marks Spain's first final appearance since 2010 and extends their remarkable tournament run with a 37-game unbeaten streak heading into the championship match.
Lamine Yamal drew a penalty after a foul by Lucas Digne, providing a decisive moment in Spain's dominant performance. Spain's defense contained France's attacking threat, including Kylian Mbappé, recording their sixth shutout of the tournament.
France is eliminated from the tournament, missing a third consecutive final appearance after reaching the championship match in both 2018 and 2022. The French team had arrived at the semifinals undefeated following five consecutive group-stage victories and a quarterfinal win over Morocco. Spain will face Argentina in the final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, as the Spanish demonstrate defensive resilience and offensive efficiency in knockout competition.
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Spain's dominant defense delivers shutout in knockout clash
Spain's defensive organization limited France's attacking opportunities, with Kylian Mbappé contained throughout the match. The sixth shutout of the tournament demonstrates Spain's ability to execute defensive structures under high-pressure conditions. Lamine Yamal's penalty-drawing play converted a critical attacking moment into a scoring opportunity, exemplifying Spain's clinical finishing in knockout stages.
France's undefeated run ends in semifinal despite group stage dominance
France entered the semifinal undefeated through five consecutive group-stage victories and a quarterfinal redemption win over Morocco. The 2-0 elimination marks France's third consecutive World Cup semifinal exit after reaching finals in 2018 and 2022. Spain's victory extends their recent dominance, having defeated France for the third consecutive time in a major tournament match.