Spain delivered an exceptional display, defeating France 2-0 in the semifinal of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Tuesday.
With goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro in each half, Spain secured their first World Cup final berth since their victory in 2010.
This marks the second time that Spain and France have met in World Cup history, with France previously triumphing 3-1 in the round of 16 during the 2006 tournament held in Germany.
Heading into Tuesday's match, Spain had emerged victorious in their last two encounters against France and aimed to extend their winning streak against Didier Deschamps' team.
After a closely contested start, Spain was awarded a penalty when Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal, allowing Oyarzabal to convert and give Spain a 1-0 advantage in the 22nd minute.
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France was compelled to make an early substitution when Arsenal defender William Saliba left the pitch due to injury.
Les Bleus came out more determined in the second half, seeking an equalizer, but it was Spain that extended their lead in the 58th minute with a goal from Porro.
The right-back executed a one-two pass with Dani Olmo, penetrated the box, and struck past the French goalkeeper.
Moments later, Yamal believed he had scored a third for the European champions with a stunning curl into the top corner, but his goal was disallowed for offside.
Spain will now prepare to face the winner of the second semifinal between reigning champions Argentina and England in Sunday’s final.
The last encounter between Argentina and England at the World Cup occurred during the group stage of the 2002 tournament jointly hosted by South Korea and Japan.
The Three Lions emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, courtesy of a first-half penalty from David Beckham.
By James Agberebi
