A masterclass in tactical discipline propelled Spain into the 2026 FIFA World Cup final as they dismantled pre-tournament favourites France with a comprehensive 2-0 victory at Dallas Stadium on Tuesday.
First-half penalty specialist Mikel Oyarzabal and defender Pedro Porro provided the goals to cap a dominant showing by the reigning European champions. The triumph keeps Luis de la Fuente’s side on track for their second world title and extends their remarkable unbeaten run to 37 international matches, equaling Italy's all-time European record.
The clinical display means Spain will head to New York/New Jersey Stadium on Sunday to play the winners of the second semi-final between England and Argentina. Meanwhile, a lackluster France side under Didier Deschamps must settle for Saturday's third-place play-off in Miami.
Spain took command in the 22nd minute after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was fouled in the box by French defender Lucas Digne. Oyarzabal stepped up to coolly convert the penalty, sliding the ball past French goalkeeper Mike Maignan for his 30th international goal.
France suffered another heavy setback on the half-hour mark when Arsenal center-back William Saliba was forced off with a back injury, necessitating the introduction of Maxence Lacroix. France struggled to establish an attacking rhythm, leaving captain Kylian Mbappé isolated against a compact Spanish backline marshalled by Rodri.
Any hopes of a French comeback were extinguished in the 58th minute when Pedro Porro initiated a dazzling one-two with Dani Olmo. Porro received the return pass on the edge of the box and slotted a precise, low finish into the bottom corner.
While France searches for answers before their departure from the tournament, Spain moves on to Sunday's showpiece in historically formidable form.