Two of the strongest teams faced each other in the first semifinal in Dallas. Spain outplayed France 2-0 and kept another clean sheet in this World Cup. With this victory over France, Spain became the first finalist of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro were the goalscorers for Spain, helping them overpower the quality French side.
The first half kicked off with both teams aiming to win the match and seal their spot in the final, moving one step closer to the World Cup trophy. France earned two corners in the first 15 minutes, but the French were unable to capitalize and score the opening goal. Spain also received a free kick but failed to make the most of the opportunity. Spain came close to taking the lead early in the match when French defender Lucas Digne fouled Spain’s young star Lamine Yamal, resulting in a penalty for Spain. Mikel Oyarzabal converted the penalty in the 22nd minute to give Spain a much-needed 1-0 lead in the semifinal.
In the 37th minute, Spain had another chance to score their second goal, but the French defenders and goalkeeper combined well to deny them. At the other end, France launched a dangerous counterattack that gave them an opportunity to equalize, but Spain’s goalkeeper, Unai Simón, made an excellent save to preserve the lead, and the first half ended with Spain leading 1-0.
The second half began with both teams showing greater intensity and a more attacking approach. France continued to press, while Spain remained solid in defense. Spain doubled their advantage when right-back Pedro Porro scored from a Dani Olmo assist, strengthening the Spaniards’ grip on the match. France fought hard throughout the second half, but Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and the rest of the team were unable to find the back of the net due to Unai Simón’s outstanding goalkeeping.
At the final whistle, Spain defeated France 2-0, knocking the two-time world champions out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and booking their place in the final in New York on Sunday, 19 July 2026.