Spain advanced to the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a disciplined 2-0 victory over France in the semi-final match held Tuesday at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Spanish side maintained their defensive resilience, securing their sixth clean sheet in seven matches and conceding only one goal throughout the tournament, which came in their quarter-final win against Belgium.

Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring for Spain with a penalty in the 22nd minute, and Pedro Porro added a second goal in the 58th minute to seal the win. Spain’s defensive solidity was highlighted by a crucial late intervention from defender Marc Cucurella, who managed to deflect a key attempt by France’s star forward Kylian Mbappé, keeping the ball narrowly wide in the 67th minute. France, the two-time defending champions, had entered the match with 16 goals scored in the tournament, but were unable to break down Spain’s well-organized defense.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised his team’s collective effort, underscoring their control over the match and successful disruption of France’s transition game. “It is a victory of the team, this is not about me,” Porro said following the win, emphasizing the squad’s unity and shared commitment.

This year’s Spanish squad reflects a resurgence reminiscent of the era dominated by Andres Iniesta and Xavi Hernandez. After failing to advance beyond the round of 16 in the last three World Cups, Spain now boasts a balanced team featuring experienced players like Cucurella and Rodri in midfield, alongside emerging talents such as 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, who had a goal ruled offside earlier in the tournament.

Spain will face either defending champions Argentina or England in the final, scheduled for Sunday. The Spanish coach expressed pride in his squad’s journey and expressed confidence in their pursuit of the title. “We have taken this last step and want to get this title. These players deserve everything – day after day they’ve showed their commitment, their solidarity, their generosity, their talent,” Luis de la Fuente said.

For Spain, the success of the men’s team parallels recent achievements in women’s football, with the women’s national team currently holding the world champion title and both men’s and women’s under-19 squads winning European championships earlier this month, reflecting a broader national strength across all levels of the sport.