Spain delivered a commanding performance to defeat France 2-0 and secure their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

La Roja outplayed the French giants with confidence, discipline and precision, ending France’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final. Spain will now face either England or Argentina in the championship match on Sunday, July 19.

The Spanish side entered the semifinal determined to control possession, and their patience was rewarded in the 22nd minute. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal drove into the French penalty area before being brought down by Lucas Digne.

The referee pointed to the spot, handing Spain a golden opportunity to take control of the contest. Mikel Oyarzabal remained calm under pressure, sending goalkeeper Mike Maignan the wrong way to give Spain a deserved 1-0 advantage.

France attempted to respond through Kylian Mbappé and their talented attacking players, but Spain’s defensive organisation frustrated every move. Unai Simón remained composed in goal, while the Spanish backline denied France the space needed to create clear scoring opportunities.

Spain continued to dictate the tempo after halftime and doubled their advantage in the 58th minute. A brilliant passing sequence opened the French defence before Pedro Porro applied a composed finish past Maignan.

The second goal appeared to drain France’s remaining belief.

Didier Deschamps introduced fresh players in search of a comeback, but Spain refused to surrender control. France struggled to connect their passes in dangerous areas, while several promising attacks ended with poor finishing or desperate long-range efforts.

Mbappé, expected to inspire another famous French victory, was kept quiet by Spain’s disciplined defence. Désiré Doué also wasted a late opportunity that could have given France hope.

Spain managed the closing stages with maturity, keeping possession and frustrating a French team that became increasingly desperate.

The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among the Spanish players and supporters as La Roja reached only the second World Cup final in their history.

France arrived as one of the tournament favourites, but Spain exposed their weaknesses and produced a performance worthy of potential champions.

One more victory now separates Spain from football immortality.