Spain Triumphs Over France in FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Final

In a thrilling semi-final match at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Spain triumphed over France with a 2-0 scoreline, thanks to goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro. This victory marks France's fourth semi-final defeat in World Cup history and sets Spain up for a final showdown against either England or Argentina. With a solid defensive performance, Spain has kept six clean sheets in seven matches, showcasing their strength as they aim for another World Cup title.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 15, 2026, 11:37 IST

Spain Secures Spot in Final

Photo: @sportful/X

Arlington, July 15: Spain achieved a convincing 2-0 victory against France in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026, held at Dallas Stadium on Wednesday.

This defeat marks France's fourth loss in World Cup semi-finals, having previously faced setbacks in 1958, 1982, and 1986. Additionally, this is the third consecutive time Spain has eliminated France in a semi-final, following their encounters in Euro 2024 and the Nations League 2025.

France's loss signifies their first knockout defeat in the World Cup since the 2014 quarter-finals against Germany, ending a streak of 11 matches with 10 wins and a draw.

Spain is set to compete against the winner of the England-Argentina match in the final at New Jersey Stadium. They previously won their only final appearance in 2010, with Andres Iniesta scoring the decisive goal against the Netherlands.

Initially, France was seen as the slight favorite. Although Kylian Mbappe posed a threat on the counter, it was Lamine Yamal who created the first significant opportunity for Spain. The young winger, celebrating his 19th birthday, was fouled in the box by Lucas Digne, leading to a penalty. Mikel Oyarzabal successfully converted the penalty, sending it past Mike Maignan, known for his penalty-saving prowess.

Spain extended their lead when Pedro Porro executed a brilliant one-two with Dani Olmo, finishing with precision into the bottom corner.

Despite substitutions from France, including Desire Doue and Rayan Cherki, they struggled to regain control. Spain's goalkeeper, Unai Simon, performed well as a sweeper-keeper, while Marc Cucurella made a crucial tackle on Mbappe.

The final whistle brought joy to the Spanish team and disappointment for the French. Didier Deschamps' squad will now aim for a bronze medal on Saturday, with Mbappe looking to enhance his chances for another Golden Boot.

Spain has maintained an impressive defensive record, achieving six clean sheets in seven matches during this tournament, conceding only two goals in North America. The record for the fewest goals conceded by a World Cup-winning team is two, previously held by France in 1998, Italy in 2006, and Spain in 2010.