Spain Stuns France, Books World Cup Final Berth in Dallas
Photo: REUTERS
Spain booked a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after a commanding 2-0 victory over France at Dallas Stadium.
Luis de la Fuente’s squad combined airtight defending with clinical goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro to dispatch the favorites. The breakthrough arrived in the 22nd minute when Lamine Yamal, celebrating his 19th birthday, drew a foul from Lucas Digne.
Oyarzabal converted the penalty past Mike Maignan to ignite Spanish ecstasy. Spain doubled the lead in the 58th minute as Porro finished a sublime one-two with Dani Olmo. Despite Didier Deschamps introducing Desire Doue and Rayan Cherki, and Kylian Mbappe threatening on the break, Spain held firm.
Unai Simon starred as a sweeper-keeper while Marc Cucurella executed a crucial challenge on Mbappe. The win sends Spain to New York New Jersey Stadium for Sunday's final against the England-Argentina winner.
France faces a bronze medal match Saturday, where Mbappe eyes the adidas Golden Boot. Spain now seeks to replicate their 2010 Soccer City triumph, where Andres Iniesta sank the Netherlands.
