Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup final with an impressive 2-0 victory over tournament favourites France at Dallas Stadium, delivering a disciplined and clinical performance to end Les Bleus’ hopes of back-to-back finals.
Luis de la Fuente’s side produced a tactical masterclass, neutralising France’s star-studded attack while controlling possession and limiting clear-cut opportunities. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro secured a deserved win and sent Spain into Sunday’s World Cup final.
Spain broke the deadlock midway through the first half after France defender Lucas Digne brought down Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area while attempting to clear the ball. The challenge left the referee with little choice but to award a penalty.
Oyarzabal stepped up confidently and fired his spot-kick into the bottom corner, giving Spain a crucial lead. From that moment on, La Roja dictated the tempo and frustrated France with their composed, organised approach.
France were expected to respond after the break, but Spain continued to dominate proceedings. Pedro Porro doubled the lead after combining brilliantly with Dani Olmo in a slick one-two before finishing clinically at the near post.
The goal put Spain firmly in control and left France with an uphill battle. Despite having more than 30 minutes to find a way back into the match, France struggled to break down Spain’s disciplined defence.
De la Fuente’s side remained compact, calm, and organised throughout, continuing a remarkable defensive record of conceding just one goal during the tournament.
Spain comfortably saw out the closing stages to seal a memorable victory and secure their place in the World Cup final.
The defeat ends France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final. They will now compete in Saturday’s third-place play-off before bidding farewell to head coach Didier Deschamps, who will step down after 14 years in charge following the tournament.
Spain will now travel to New Jersey for Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final, where they will face either England or Argentina, who meet in the second semi-final. La Roja will be aiming to lift the World Cup trophy for only the second time in their history after another outstanding display on the biggest stage.