Spain became the first finalist of the 2026 World Cup by defeating France 2-0 at Dallas Stadium. Luis de la Fuente’s team controlled the decisive moments and secured a return to the title match for the first time since winning the tournament in 2010.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring in the 22nd minute from the penalty spot after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal. The lead rewarded Spain’s stronger start and forced France to move away from the cautious approach with which they had begun the semifinal.
The second goal arrived in the 58th minute. Pedro Porro completed a collective move developed with Dani Olmo and doubled an advantage that Spain managed through composure, ball circulation and a defence capable of protecting Unai Simón’s goal.
France tried to respond with substitutions and a greater attacking presence, but could not score. Kylian Mbappé and his teammates fell short of extending the run that had taken them to the 2018 and 2022 finals, and the French side will now play for third place.
Spain, the European champions, will contest the second World Cup final in their history on Sunday, 19 July. Their only title came in South Africa in 2010, and this campaign returns them to the decisive match sixteen years later.
Their opponent will emerge from the semifinal between Argentina and England. Lionel Scaloni’s side now know who will be waiting if they overcome their next challenge: a solid, patient Spain team capable of winning a high-pressure knockout match without conceding.
