Spain delivered a masterclass in control and counter-pressing to defeat France 2-0 in the first semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday night. The result propels La Roja into Sunday’s final in New Jersey, their first appearance in the tournament’s showpiece since lifting the trophy in South Africa sixteen years ago. For France, the defeat halts a campaign that had seemed destined for a third straight final, their vaunted attack neutralised by a disciplined Spanish defensive structure.

The decisive moment arrived in the 22nd minute. After a period of sustained Spanish possession, a deep cross from Marc Cucurella caused confusion in the French penalty area. As Lucas Digne attempted to clear, he caught the leg of the teenage winger Lamine Yamal, who had darted in front of him. Salvadoran referee Iván Barton pointed to the spot, and Mikel Oyarzabal drove the penalty high past Mike Maignan, who had guessed correctly but could not reach the ball. It was the first time France had trailed in the entire tournament. The French suffered a further blow when centre-back William Saliba was forced off with an injury in the 31st minute, replaced by Maxence Lacroix.

Spain doubled their lead in the 58th minute through a flowing move. Right-back Pedro Porro initiated a one-two with Dani Olmo on the edge of the box, collected the return pass, and slotted a composed finish into the far corner. A third Spanish goal, scored by Yamal minutes later, was ruled out for a marginal offside. France, despite introducing attacking substitutes, failed to register a shot on target in the first half and struggled to create clear chances throughout. Kylian Mbappé, who had scored eight goals in the tournament, was largely contained, his frustration evident in a late yellow card for a challenge on goalkeeper Unai Simón.

Viewed from Madrid, the victory extends Spain’s unbeaten run to a national record of 37 matches and confirms the tactical vision of coach Luis de la Fuente, who stated afterwards, “We faced one of the best national teams in the world, but they were up against the best team in the world.” In Paris, the mood was one of shock as Didier Deschamps’ side, which had won all six previous matches while scoring 16 goals, was comprehensively outplayed. French analysts noted the midfield pairing of Rodri and Fabián Ruiz had smothered the supply lines to Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé.

Spain now await the winner of Wednesday’s semi-final between Argentina and England in Atlanta. The final will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on 19 July. France will contest the third-place match in Miami on 18 July, where Mbappé will have a final opportunity to add to his tally in the race for the Golden Boot.