Spain secured a 2-0 victory over favored France in the World Cup semifinal, returning to the final for the first time since their 2010 triumph. This clinical performance at Dallas Stadium saw Spain dominate against a French side that had been impressive throughout the tournament. Spain's defense was particularly lauded, restricting France's star-studded attack, including Kylian Mbappé, to only 0.3 expected goals from 10 shots.
The scoring began in the 22nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty kick, awarded after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal in the box. Oyarzabal's goal was his team-leading fifth of the tournament. Spain extended their lead in the 58th minute with a well-executed play: Pedro Porro engaged in a give-and-go with Dani Olmo before slotting the ball past French goalkeeper Mike Maignan for his second goal of the tournament. The match also saw France's central defender William Saliba exit due to injury in the 30th minute.
Spain's victory means they will face either England or Argentina in the final on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. France, on the other hand, will play in the third-place match on Saturday in Miami, which will also mark Didier Deschamps' final game as their coach. La Roja's impressive defensive record now stands at only one goal conceded through six games in the tournament, extending an official competition unbeaten streak dating back to March 2023.
