Spain Defeats France 2-0 to Reach World Cup 2026 Final
Key points
- ▪Mikel Oyarzabal scored a penalty in the 22nd minute to put Spain ahead.
- ▪Pedro Porro doubled Spain's lead in the 58th minute with a clinical finish.
- ▪Spain held 51% possession and both teams had 10 shots each.
How it unfolded
Spain took the lead in the 22nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty after a foul in the box. France struggled to create clear chances in the first half, managing only 1 shot on goal compared to Spain's 2. The half ended with Spain leading 1-0, with France holding 49% possession.
The decisive moments
The second half saw Spain extend their lead in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro, who finished a well-worked move. France pushed for a comeback but could only manage 2 shots on target overall, while Spain registered 2. Despite having equal total shots (10 each), France's lack of precision proved costly.
What it means
Spain's victory sends them to the World Cup 2026 final, marking their first final appearance since 2010. For France, the defeat ends their title defense after winning in 2018. Spain's balanced performance, with slight dominance in possession and clinical finishing, was the difference in this tight semi-final.
More from OffsidePost
Algeria Make History: First Women's World Cup Berth Secured via WAFCON Semifinal
Udinese stun Barcelona and Nottingham Forest to claim inaugural Friuli Venezia Giulia Cup
Salah & Vozinha: The Transfer Reveals That Refuse to Fade
Messi to miss Monterrey tie after father Jorge passes away
Atlas Lions Make It Official: Morocco Reach World Cup With a Point to Prove
Algeria Make History: First Women's World Cup Qualification