Spain Blank France to Reach World Cup Final

Spain ended France's hopes of reaching a third consecutive FIFA World Cup final with a commanding 2-0 victory in the first semifinal, booking their place in the 2026 showpiece match.
After winning the World Cup in 2018 and finishing runners-up in 2022, Kylian Mbappe's France entered this tournament as one of the favorites. Despite an impressive run to the semifinals, Didier Deschamps' side were thoroughly outplayed by the European champions, with stars Michael Olise, Ousmane Dembele and Mbappe failing to break down Spain's disciplined defense.
Spain seized control early in the match. In the 22nd minute, captain Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty after Lamine Yamal was fouled inside the box, giving Luis de la Fuente's men a deserved lead.
France pushed for an equalizer, but Spain dominated possession with their trademark tiki-taka football, controlling the tempo through Rodri and Fabian Ruiz while limiting the French attack to few clear-cut chances.
The Spaniards doubled their advantage in the 58th minute when Pedro Porro combined brilliantly with Dani Olmo before finishing clinically past Mike Maignan. Yamal thought he had added a third six minutes later, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Deschamps introduced several substitutions, including Desire Doue, Ryan Cherki and Theo Hernandez, in an attempt to spark a comeback. However, France never found their rhythm as Spain continued to dictate play and comfortably saw out the match.
The 2-0 victory sends Spain into their first World Cup final since winning the title in 2010. They will face the winner of the second semifinal between Argentina and England in Sunday's final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

MMR