Spain have reached the FIFA World Cup final for the first time since their historic 2010 triumph after defeating France 2-0 in the semi-final at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
La Roja will now face either England or Argentina in the final at New York/New Jersey Stadium on Sunday as they chase their second World Cup title.
France, who won the tournament in 2018 and finished runners-up in 2022, will now play the third-place match in Miami on Saturday.
Spain looked sharper throughout the contest and made better use of their chances against one of the tournament favorites. They had 51 percent possession and remained solid defensively despite France managing three shots on target from 10 attempts.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Lucas Digne caught Lamine Yamal inside the box. Digne appeared unaware that the Spanish winger was right behind him and kicked his leg, leaving the referee with an easy decision.
French goalkeeper Mike Maignan guessed correctly and dived to his left, but Oyarzabal’s strike had enough height and power to beat him. It was Oyarzabal’s fifth goal of the tournament, making him Spain’s leading scorer at this World Cup.
Spain doubled their lead in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro, who produced a composed finish after combining with Dani Olmo. Porro started the move himself with a quick give-and-go before slotting the ball past Maignan to put Spain firmly in control.
France pushed to get back into the match but could not break down a disciplined Spanish defense.
The victory also extended Spain’s unbeaten run to 37 matches, with 30 wins and seven draws, equaling Italy’s European record.
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