Spain delivered a commanding performance to defeat France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup semifinal on Tuesday night, July 14, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The victory propels Spain into Sunday's final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, marking only their second appearance in a World Cup final. Spain previously won the tournament in 2010.
First-half breakthrough from the penalty spot
Spain opened the scoring in the 22nd minute through Mikel Oyarzabal, who converted a penalty kick. The spot kick was earned by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, a day after his 19th birthday. Yamal chased down a loose ball in the penalty area and was kicked by France defender Lucas Digne as he attempted to clear it. Oyarzabal's fifth goal of the tournament was the first time either Spain or France had trailed in any of their seven games in this World Cup.
Porro doubles the lead in the second half
Spanish defender Pedro Porro doubled the lead in the 58th minute with a composed tap-in past French goalkeeper Mike Maignan. The goal came after a well-worked move that left the French defense exposed. The loss ends France's hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final, having won in 2018 and lost on penalties to Argentina in 2022.
Mbappé starts but fails to inspire France
Kylian Mbappé started the match after being substituted in the 77th minute of France's quarterfinal win over Morocco. Mbappé had scored eight goals in the tournament and was level with Argentina's Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot. However, he was unable to find the net against a resolute Spanish defense. Messi, 39, holds the World Cup record with 21 career goals, one ahead of Mbappé, 27.
Spain's tactical discipline frustrates France
Spain controlled the midfield and limited France's attacking opportunities throughout the match. In the eighth minute, Spain earned a free kick just outside the area after Adrien Rabiot was booked for a foul on Dani Olmo. Alex Baena's effort struck the French wall. Spain now awaits the winner of the second semifinal between defending champion Argentina and England, scheduled for Wednesday, July 15.
