Spain Knock Out France to Book Second-Ever World Cup Final Spot

49%

Possession

51%

14

Shots

10

4

Shots on target

2

7

Corners

1

11

Fouls

12

2

Yellow cards

1

0

Red cards

0

4

Offsides

5

0

Saves

4

Spain are through to the FIFA World Cup final for only the second time after a clinical 2-0 victory over France in Tuesday’s semifinal, ending the French side’s hopes of appearing in a third successive final.

La Roja produced a disciplined display at both ends of the pitch, limiting France’s attacking threat while taking their chances to seal a deserved victory at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when Spain were awarded a penalty after French defender Lucas Digne brought down Lamine Yamal inside the box while attempting to clear the ball.

Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and confidently sent his spot-kick beyond goalkeeper Mike Maignan to hand Spain the lead.

France attempted to respond before and after the interval, but Spain’s compact defence and goalkeeper Unai Simón kept Didier Deschamps’ side at bay, frustrating Kylian Mbappé and the rest of the French attack.

Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro, who completed a swift passing move with Dani Olmo before calmly finishing past Maignan to put the contest beyond France.

The 2018 world champions continued to push for a way back into the match, but Spain remained composed and rarely looked troubled.

Mbappé had one final opportunity from a free kick late in the game, but his effort sailed over the bar.

The victory also saw Spain register a sixth clean sheet of the tournament, highlighting the defensive solidity that has underpinned their run to the final.

Spain, who lifted their only World Cup title in South Africa in 2010, will now await the winner of Wednesday’s semifinal between England and Argentina as they bid to become world champions for a second time.