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Arlington: Spain defeats France to reach World Cup final

PUBLISHED Jul 14, 2026, 9:28 PM ET

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ARLINGTON, Texas — Spain advanced to the World Cup final with a 2-0 victory over France in Tuesday’s semifinal at AT&T Stadium, delivering a composed and disciplined performance against the tournament favorites. Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty in the 20th minute after sustained early pressure, and Pedro Porro doubled the lead in the 58th minute to give the European champions a firm grip on the match. Spain’s midfield, led by Rodri, controlled the early exchanges and consistently overran the French pairing of Adrien Rabiot and Aurelien Tchouameni, limiting service to France’s vaunted front four of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola and Michael Olise. France’s frustration showed early when Rabiot received a yellow card in the ninth minute for a foul on Dani Olmo, and their problems deepened when defender William Saliba left injured in the 31st minute, forcing coach Didier Deschamps to bring on Maxence Lacroix. Spain maintained their organization at the back, with goalkeeper Unai Simon preserving the two-goal cushion by denying Mbappe in the closing minutes of the first half. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said his side had faced one of the best national teams but demonstrated they are the best team in the world, while Deschamps, who is stepping down after the tournament, said his players were devastated and accepted that France had been outplayed. Spain, the reigning European champions, will face either Argentina or England in Sunday’s final in New Jersey.

By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Ninth minute Rabiot booked for foul
20th minute Oyarzabal scores penalty opener
31st minute Saliba substituted after injury
Closing minutes first half Simon denies Mbappe
58th minute Porro doubles Spain advantage
Full time Spain eliminates favored France
Sunday Spain to face Argentina or England
Post-match Deschamps confirms imminent France departure

News Intelligence

Spain's victory over France is a big upset. It shakes up the World Cup landscape. If you're a soccer fan, this is a game-changer. It's a good time to check the odds for the final match.