World Cup 2026: Spain advances to the final following a commanding 2-0 victory against France.

Spain has advanced to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final following a decisive 2-0 victory over France in a dominant semi-final display on Tuesday night. The European champions exhibited a composed performance at this crucial stage, with Mikel Oyarzabal converting a first-half penalty and Pedro Porro adding a second-half goal to secure Luis de la Fuente's squad a spot in Sunday’s final. Spain will now compete against the victor of the other semi-final clash between England and Argentina on July 19.

Spain are one step closer to glory #FIFAWorldCup

FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 14, 2026Oyarzabal penalty gives Spain early advantageSpain capitalized on an ideal opportunity to seize control of the match in the 20th minute when a penalty was awarded due to Lucas Digne's foul in the box. Mikel Oyarzabal confidently stepped up for La Roja, delivering an unstoppable shot into the top right corner from 12 yards. France struggled to generate clear-cut chances before halftime, while Spain continued to pose a threat. Fabian Ruiz nearly doubled their lead in the 38th minute, but his attempt from inside the box was expertly blocked, leading to a corner for Spain.Porro strike seals Spain's place in finalSpain extended their lead shortly after the hour mark with a superb attacking sequence. Dani Olmo displayed great awareness by finding Pedro Porro in the penalty area with a clever pass, allowing the defender to strike a first-time finish into the right side of the net, making it 2-0 in the 58th minute.

Porro doubles the lead #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/zHvMlH6k3q

FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 14, 2026Lamine Yamal thought he had scored a third goal just three minutes later, but his effort was disallowed after the assistant referee flagged for offside.France fall short despite late pressureFrance surged forward in the final moments, searching for a way back into the match. Desire Doue challenged Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon with a powerful long-range attempt in the 81st minute, but the goalkeeper made a crucial save to keep Spain's lead intact. Deep into stoppage time, Ousmane Dembele came closest to finding the net for Les Bleus after a dazzling solo run into the box, but Simon once again stood firm to deny him.

The first spot in the Final belongs to Spain #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/8umlGDZZ2y

FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) July 14, 2026The final whistle confirmed Spain’s entry into the World Cup final as they pursue a second World Cup trophy following their historic victory in South Africa in 2010.