This match served as a pointed reminder that Spain should not be underestimated. With a commanding performance, they advanced to the World Cup final, leaving France struggling to keep pace. Initially regarded as potential champions, Didier Deschamps’ squad could not find their rhythm, and Kylian Mbappé, once again, will have to wait four more years to reclaim the title; he appeared isolated and was effectively contained by a dominant Spanish side.
Spain capitalized on a defensive lapse from Lucas Digne, who conceded a penalty in the first half, although the decision raised some eyebrows. Mikel Oyarzabal confidently converted the penalty, and from that moment, France seemed to lose their way. Pedro Porro’s expertly executed second goal sealed the victory, leaving no doubt about Spain’s capabilities as they left their opponents bewildered.
After a chaotic build-up marred by a loud DJ that detracted from the atmosphere, the match finally began. Such a crucial World Cup semi-final deserved better, as the closed roof amplified the noise without enhancing the experience. However, the game itself showcased the teams’ finesse and skill, contrasting sharply with the pre-match hype.
Spain maintained the same starting lineup that triumphed over Belgium, with Mikel Merino poised to make an impact off the bench. Deschamps opted to reintegrate Aurélien Tchouaméni into the midfield, which felt unjust to Manu Koné, and chose the speed of Bradley Barcola over the more subtle talents of Désiré Doué.
Six minutes into the match, Barcola evaded Pedro Porro, prompting Spain to focus on maintaining control. An early opportunity for Álex Baena narrowly missed when his free-kick hit the wall.
The match continued with Mbappé wasting a promising chance by misdirecting a pass toward Ousmane Dembélé. As France began to find their footing, Michael Olise connected with Dembélé, who delivered a brilliant ball towards Mbappé, but Spain’s defense quickly regrouped.
Then, Digne’s mistake opened the door for Spain. He misplayed a cross, allowing Lamine Yamal to challenge for the ball. Yamal nudged it past Digne, possibly using his arm, before being brought down by a panicked Digne.
The referee, Iván Barton, had little choice but to award the penalty, and although the video assistant referee reviewed the decision, it stood. Replays suggested Yamal may have inadvertently used his arm.
Unfazed, Oyarzabal confidently slotted the penalty past Mike Maignan. Soon after, France faced further disruption when William Saliba had to be replaced by Maxence Lacroix. They found themselves trailing and struggling to regain control in midfield. Barcola attempted to challenge Porro again but ended up wildly missing the target.
France’s struggles continued, exemplified when Maignan’s clearance went directly to Baena. This led to an exhilarating sequence, with Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal setting up Fabián Ruiz, whose tap-in attempt was thwarted by Dayot Upamecano’s timely interception.
Spain went into halftime with a narrow lead but had effectively neutralized France’s attacking threats, which had barely registered a response.
In the second half, Koné replaced the card-prone Adrien Rabiot, as France sought to regain some control. However, Spain remained firmly in charge, with Oyarzabal’s shot going over the bar. France struggled to maintain possession, and an opportunity to attack ended with Dembélé losing the ball.
Substitutions were made as Doué came on for Barcola, but the shift did little to improve France’s fortunes. Spain, in complete control, showcased their attacking prowess with Porro’s beautifully constructed goal, following a clever assist from a tumbling Olmo as France’s left flank was exposed. The finish was clinical, emphasizing Spain’s dominance.
The scoreline could have been even more lopsided had Lamine Yamal not been flagged for offside before a potential third goal. It wasn’t until the 64th minute that Mbappé made a notable appearance, with Unai Simón saving his cross-shot. Shortly after, a deflected shot from Marc Cucurella went just wide, leaving Deschamps desperate for a coaching break to regroup.
Despite the timeout, the game continued in Spain’s favor. Mbappé’s free-kick was overhit, but Ferran Torres nearly added a third for Spain, who are now favorites to win the tournament.
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