France 0–2 Spain: Oyarzabal and Porro Fire La Roja Into FIFA World Cup 2026 Final
Kathmandu: Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final with a commanding 2-0 victory over France in the first semifinal at Arlington, Texas. The reigning European champions delivered another composed display as goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro ended France’s dream of reaching a third straight World Cup final.
Spain Take Control on the Biggest Stage
France arrived full of confidence after eliminating Morocco in the quarterfinals, while Spain had already shown their quality by knocking out Belgium. The semifinal was expected to be a battle between two of the tournament’s strongest sides, but Spain controlled the biggest moments with calm passing, disciplined defending and clinical finishing.
The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when teenage star Lamine Yamal won a penalty after drawing a foul from Lucas Digne inside the box. Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and confidently converted from the spot to hand Spain a deserved lead.
Key Moments
- 22nd minute: Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty after Lamine Yamal earned the spot kick.
- 58th minute: Pedro Porro doubled Spain’s advantage after a brilliant one-two with Dani Olmo.
- Unai Simón produced another solid performance as Spain kept France scoreless.
- Spain secured their first men’s World Cup final appearance since winning the title in 2010.
Turning Point
The penalty won by Lamine Yamal changed the direction of the match. France were forced to push forward after falling behind, leaving more space for Spain’s quick combinations. Spain stayed organized at the back and punished France again when Pedro Porro finished a flowing move in the 58th minute, leaving the French side with a mountain to climb.
Player Impact
Lamine Yamal once again showed why he has become one of the stars of the tournament. Although he did not score, his direct running created the opening goal and constantly troubled the French defense. Mikel Oyarzabal kept his composure from the penalty spot, while Pedro Porro delivered a superb finish to seal the victory.
At the other end, goalkeeper Unai Simón frustrated France throughout the evening and recorded another clean sheet. Spain’s defensive unit successfully contained the threat of Kylian Mbappé and France’s attacking stars, allowing very few clear opportunities.
Spain March Into the Final
The final whistle confirmed a deserved 2-0 victory for Spain, sending La Roja into the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final. They will face the winner of the second semifinal between England and Argentina, while France will now compete in the third-place playoff. Spain’s unbeaten run in regular time stretched to 37 matches, underlining why they have become one of the world’s most dominant national teams.
