Spain deliver masterclass to beat France 2-0 and reach World Cup final

Spain delivered a controlled and dominant performance to defeat France 2-0, advancing to the World Cup final and ending the French team's bid for a third title. The European champions showcased slick play and defensive solidity against a French side previously known for its breathtaking displays.

Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring in the first half with a penalty, awarded after a foul on Spain's winger Lamine Yamal. The spot-kick was Oyarzabal's fifth goal of the tournament. France suffered another blow shortly after when defender William Saliba was forced off due to injury.

Pedro Porro doubled Spain's lead in the second half with a stunning team goal, capping off a period of intricate passing play. Despite France's array of attacking talent, they struggled to create clear chances and registered only two shots, neither on target, in the first half. France's coach Didier Deschamps made several substitutions in a desperate attempt to change the game's momentum, but Spain's defense held firm.

Spain, who have conceded only once throughout the tournament, now stand 90 minutes away from potentially winning their first 48-team World Cup. This achievement would mirror the success of the 2010 Spanish team. The defeat marks a bitter disappointment for France, who had reached the previous two World Cup finals, winning in 2018 and losing narrowly on penalties in 2022.