Spain secured a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final with a disciplined 2–0 victory over France in the semi-final on 14 July 2026 at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro, combined with another outstanding defensive display, sent the European champions into their first World Cup final since 2010.
France entered the match seeking a third consecutive FIFA World Cup final appearance, while Spain aimed to continue an unbeaten run that had stretched throughout the tournament. After an evenly contested opening spell, Spain earned a penalty in the 22nd minute when Lamine Yamal was fouled by Lucas Digne inside the area. Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the spot to give Spain a deserved lead before half-time.
Spain remained organised after the interval and continued to frustrate a French attack led by Kylian Mbappé. The advantage doubled in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro, who completed a well-worked move after exchanging passes with Dani Olmo before finishing beyond Mike Maignan. France struggled to create clear scoring opportunities against Spain’s compact defensive structure, with the Spaniards recording another clean sheet.
The victory moved Spain into the FIFA World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the England–Argentina semi-final. France’s tournament ended in the last four, bringing their run of consecutive World Cup final appearances to a close. Spain also extended their unbeaten streak to 37 international matches while recording their sixth clean sheet in seven games at the tournament.
Standout Performances
- Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain): Scored the opening goal from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute.
- Pedro Porro (Spain): Added Spain’s second goal in the 58th minute.
- Dani Olmo (Spain): Assisted Pedro Porro’s goal.
- Spain: Recorded their sixth clean sheet in seven World Cup matches.
Spain’s second goal proved decisive. Pedro Porro’s finish in the 58th minute gave the Spaniards a two-goal cushion and allowed them to manage the remainder of the match while limiting France’s attacking opportunities.
Match Statistics
- Tournament: FIFA World Cup 2026
- Round: Semi-final
- Date: 14 July 2026
- Venue: Dallas Stadium, Arlington, Texas
- Final Score: France 0–2 Spain
- Half-time: France 0–1 Spain
- Goals:
- Mikel Oyarzabal (Penalty, 22′)
- Pedro Porro (58′)
- Attendance: 70,176
- Result: Spain advanced to the FIFA World Cup final.