World Cup 2026 Spain Beat France 2-0 to Reach the Final

SPAIN · WORLD CUP

Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro sent Spain past a favoured France and into their first World Cup final since 2010.

World Cup 2026 Spain outclass France

Spain produced a superb display to beat France 2-0 at Dallas Stadium and reach the World Cup final. It was a statement win over one of the tournament favourites.

Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro scored the goals that settled the semi-final. Spain controlled the contest from start to finish.

France, who had won all their matches to this point, had no answer. Their run at the tournament is over.

Oyarzabal strikes from the spot

Spain took the lead from the penalty spot in the first half. The spot-kick was awarded after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal inside the box.

Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and made no mistake. The goal rewarded Spain’s bright and confident start.

The young Spanish side grew in belief with the lead. France were made to chase the game.

Lamine Yamal was a constant threat down the right flank. His running repeatedly stretched the French defence and won the crucial penalty.

Porro doubles the lead

Spain effectively settled the tie in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro. He drove forward and finished solo past Mike Maignan.

It was a goal of real quality to cap a commanding performance. Spain’s passing and movement had unpicked the French defence.

From there Spain managed the game with maturity. France never looked like mounting a comeback.

The two-goal cushion allowed Spain to dictate the tempo. They kept the ball with confidence and denied France a foothold.

France run out of ideas

France carried a fearsome attack but could not break Spain down. Kylian Mbappé and his teammates were kept quiet for long spells.

Spain’s disciplined defending frustrated the favourites throughout. Every French surge was met with a composed response.

By full time France had been comprehensively outplayed. Spain deserved their place in the final.

It was a rare off night for a France side that had swept all before them. On this occasion they simply met a better team.

The numbers behind the win

According to FIFA’s official match centre, Spain controlled possession and limited France to few clear chances. It was a display of authority against the pre-tournament favourites.

By The Rio Times’ reading, this is a landmark night for Spanish football and a continuation of the big-game temperament we flagged earlier in the tournament. Spain have reached their first World Cup final since they won the trophy in 2010, and once again a clutch performer—Mikel Merino scored the stoppage-time winner against Portugal in the last 16—has been central to the story, with Oyarzabal and Porro now stepping up on the semi-final stage.

Ending France’s perfect run makes the achievement even more striking. Spain look every inch a side capable of lifting the trophy.

France had arrived as the only team still to drop points or need extra time. Spain dismantled that record with a controlled, clinical display.

The final awaits

Spain advance to the World Cup final in New Jersey on Sunday. They will face the winner of England and Argentina.

Either opponent would provide a formidable test on the biggest stage. Spain, though, will fear no one on this evidence.

The final will be played at the New York New Jersey Stadium. It is the showpiece the tournament has been building towards.

Why it matters

Spain’s blend of youth and control has lit up the tournament. Reaching the final confirms them as a team of the moment.

A new generation of Spanish talent has come of age on the biggest stage. They now stand ninety minutes from the ultimate prize in the game.

For France, the defeat ends hopes of back-to-back titles. Their golden generation must wait a little longer.

Reaching the semi-finals still represents a strong tournament for France. But the manner of the exit will sting a side with such high ambitions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the score in World Cup 2026 Spain vs France?

Spain won 2-0 in Dallas. Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro scored the goals.

How did Spain score?

Oyarzabal converted a first-half penalty and Porro added a second in the 58th minute. The penalty came after a foul on Lamine Yamal.

Is this Spain’s first final in a while?

Yes. It is Spain’s first World Cup final since they won the tournament in 2010.

Are France out of the World Cup?

Yes. The defeat eliminated France at the semi-final stage.

Who do Spain play in the final?

Spain face the winner of England and Argentina. The final is in New Jersey on Sunday.

This article was produced by The Rio Times’ automated newsroom system. How we use AI · Report an error