Spain delivered a tactical masterclass to beat tournament favourites France 2-0 in Tuesday’s World Cup semi-final, ending Les Bleus’ bid for a third world title.
Mikel Oyarzabal converted a first-half penalty before Pedro Porro doubled the lead in the 58th minute at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The result sends Spain, champions in 2010, into Sunday’s final in New Jersey against the winner of Wednesday’s semi-final between England and Argentina.
France had arrived as strong favourites following a free-scoring run to the last four, but their attacking quartet of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Bradley Barcola and Michael Olise was largely nullified by a disciplined Spanish defence.
Spain’s midfield, marshalled by Rodri alongside Fabian Ruiz and Dani Olmo, dominated proceedings from the outset, overwhelming France’s Adrien Rabiot and Aurelien Tchouameni in central areas. Rabiot was booked in the ninth minute for a foul on Olmo.
Despite Spain’s control, France carried the greater threat on the counter, with defender Pau Cubarsi forced into a crucial block to deny Mbappe a clear run at goal in the 16th minute.
