Spain’s defensive strength proved overwhelming for the French attacking team led by Kylian Mbappé, securing their place in the World Cup final with a 2-0 victory. This win marked Spain’s sixth shutout in seven matches during the tournament.
Despite France’s top talents, including Mbappé, who had scored 20 goals in 20 World Cup games prior, Spain’s prowess showed through. Coach Luis de la Fuente stated confidently, “We were up against one of the best national teams in the world, but today, they were facing the best team in the world.”
Teenager Lamine Yamal drew a penalty that led to Mikel Oyarzabal scoring the first goal. Pedro Porro added a second with a give-and-go play involving Dani Olmo. Though a goal by Yamal was disallowed for offside, his smart maneuver led to Spain’s early advantage.
Spain now faces either Argentina or England in the final. Rodri expressed Spain’s ambitions, “So difficult to get to this moment, but we want more. We want to win this World Cup.” Meanwhile, France will compete for third place against an uncertain opponent.
Spain’s defensive strategy thwarted France’s offense, leading to technical errors, as noted by departing France coach Didier Deschamps.
Spain’s victory against France marks the third summer in succession that Spain has bested France in a tournament semifinal. Yamal had previously scored in a European Championship semifinal against France, teasing their continued rivalry.
Spain has dominated opponents, scoring 12 goals to 1 since their group match against Cape Verde. Goalkeeper Unai Simón, broken a record of 650 scoreless minutes, which was only interrupted against Belgium.
This winning streak is Spain’s longest in regular time, surpassing their previous record from 2007-09. France’s defeat ends their record-matching six consecutive World Cup wins streak.
Oyarzabal’s penalty kick came following a foul against Yamal by defender Lucas Digne. Digne, experiencing challenges, ended up committing a foul in his 63rd appearance for France.
Porro scored Spain’s second goal, assisted by Olmo, who was knocked down by Dayot Upamecano shortly before. Other scoring opportunities included a free kick blocked by the French wall and a denied close-range shot by Fabian Ruiz.
Mbappé missed scoring opportunities as Spain’s defense held strong. Yet, he remains tied with Lionel Messi at eight goals in the tournament, looking to add more in the third-place match. Messi, facing Argentina’s next challenges, aims to enhance his World Cup record.
Reflecting on the match, Mbappé stated, “As the captain, I have to take all the responsibility and I have no problem with that. We wanted to go to the final. We didn’t go.”
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