Spain Crush France to Reach World Cup Final, Eyeing Second Title

ISLAMABAD (GNP): Spain powered into the FIFA World Cup final with a commanding 2-0 victory over France in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday, setting up a bid for their second world title 16 years after their maiden triumph in 2010.

Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro secured the win, though the scoreline understated Spain’s dominance as the European champions controlled possession and tempo throughout, denying France’s forward line any real platform to attack. Spain broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute when a foul in the box led to a penalty, which Oyarzabal converted. Porro doubled the advantage just before the hour mark, combining with Dani Olmo before finishing from close range.

France, who had entered the semifinal with the tournament’s most potent attack and had scored 16 goals prior to the match, managed only two shots on target and did not test the goal until after the 80th minute. Spain’s defensive organization limited the influence of key French attackers, restricting space and passing options throughout the contest.

Porro described the result as a reflection of the team’s collective effort, crediting Spain’s ability to maintain possession as central to reaching the final and calling it a victory for the entire squad. French coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged his side was second best on the night, citing a lack of technical precision and energy, while forward Kylian Mbappe said the team failed to execute its game plan and struggled with communication in its pressing.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente said the win had revived the spirit of the team’s 2010 World Cup–winning side, pointing to the squad’s humility, shared purpose and lack of individual egos as the foundation of its success. He praised the players’ commitment and attitude, adding that the squad continued training even among those who did not feature in the match. De la Fuente noted Spain has now equalled Italy’s record of 37 consecutive unbeaten matches, while stating the team still has room for improvement.

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With the result, Spain moved to the brink of a World Cup–European Championship double, having already won Euro 2024. The team will learn its final opponent after England face Argentina in Atlanta, with de la Fuente saying he would be pleased to face Argentina given his friendship with manager Lionel Scaloni, while also praising England’s squad. He added that finals should be enjoyed rather than viewed only as fixtures to be won.

France, meanwhile, will play in the third-place match after their hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final ended in the semifinal defeat.

The World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday.