sports

Spain beats France 2-0 to reach World Cup final

Published on: 14 Jul 2026, 08:59 PM

Spain secured a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final with a 2-0 victory over France in the first semifinal held in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday.

Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after France defender Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal inside the area. Yamal, celebrating his 19th birthday, challenged Digne from behind as the French player attempted to clear a bouncing ball, and Digne's clearance attempt made contact with Yamal, leading to the penalty.

Pedro Porro doubled Spain's lead in the second half, securing the win. Spain now awaits the winner of the second semifinal between England and Argentina, scheduled for Thursday in Atlanta.

The match was played in front of a capacity crowd at AT&T Stadium, with Spain controlling possession for large stretches. France, runners-up in 2022, struggled to create clear chances and were unable to find a way past Spain's disciplined defence.

Source: Indian Express

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