Image: from GUMATUMMAI X @GUMATUMMAI
By Open Chronicle News Desk
Spain are through to the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after producing a commanding 2,0 victory over France in Arlington, Texas, securing their place in the tournament’s showpiece match for the first time since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010.
In a clash widely billed as an early final between two of world football’s strongest nations, Spain gradually took complete control after a balanced opening period, delivering another mature performance under head coach Luis de la Fuente.
Oyarzabal Breaks the Deadlock
The match remained evenly contested during the first 20 minutes before Spain earned a decisive breakthrough.
France defender Lucas Digne brought down Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area after a costly lapse in concentration, leaving the referee with little option but to point to the spot.
Mikel Oyarzabal confidently converted the penalty in the 22nd minute, giving Spain a deserved lead and shifting the momentum firmly in La Roja’s favour.
Following the opening goal, Spain dominated possession and dictated the rhythm of the match, while France struggled to create meaningful opportunities despite their wealth of attacking talent.
Pedro Porro Seals Victory
Spain continued to control proceedings after halftime and doubled their advantage in the 58th minute.
Pedro Porro combined brilliantly with Dani Olmo before finishing clinically to cap a flowing attacking move that exposed the French defence.
The second goal effectively ended France’s hopes of mounting a comeback.
Although Didier Deschamps’ side showed greater urgency during the closing stages, they rarely threatened goalkeeper Unai Simón, as Spain comfortably managed the remainder of the match to secure a deserved victory.
Return to the World Cup Final
The win sends Spain into their second FIFA World Cup final, sixteen years after their historic triumph in South Africa.
The reigning European champions have continued their remarkable run under Luis de la Fuente, having also defeated France in the semifinals of UEFA Euro 2024 and the 2025 UEFA Nations League.
Spain will now face either defending world champions Argentina or England, who meet in the second semifinal. The World Cup final will be played on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
France, meanwhile, will compete in the third-place playoff.
Luis de la Fuente Praises His Players
After the match, Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente praised his squad’s commitment and belief.
“It is difficult to describe what I am feeling right now. It is probably happiness and pride. Coaching these players is a privilege,” he said.
“There is still one more step to take, and we will try to achieve it.”
Reflecting on his team’s journey, De la Fuente emphasized that Spain’s success had come from remaining faithful to a clear footballing philosophy.
“When we started this project nearly four years ago, we believed in an idea and stayed loyal to it. That idea has brought us here.”
Asked about facing one of the strongest teams in world football, the Spanish coach added confidently:
“We were playing against one of the best national teams in the world, but today they were facing the best team in the world.”
Spain will now attempt to add a second FIFA World Cup title to their growing list of international achievements when they take the field in Sunday’s final.
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