Kathmandu: Spain have booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after defeating France 2-0 in the semi-final played in Dallas, USA, on Wednesday night.

The 2010 world champions produced a composed and dominant performance to eliminate the 2022 runners-up, ending a 16-year wait for another World Cup final appearance. Spain scored once in each half to secure a deserved victory.

Oyarzabal and Porro Seal Comfortable Win
Spain took the lead in the 22nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted a penalty after France defender Lucas Digne committed a foul inside the box.

The Spaniards doubled their advantage in the 58th minute, with Pedro Porro finishing a well-worked move after being set up by Dani Olmo, effectively putting the match beyond France's reach.

Mbappé Kept Quiet by Spain's Defence
Much was expected from France captain Kylian Mbappé, who had already scored eight goals in the tournament and famously netted a hat-trick in the 2022 World Cup final. However, Spain's disciplined defence and goalkeeper Unai Simón denied him throughout the match.

Mbappé had been considered doubtful for the semi-final after suffering a minor knee injury during France's quarter-final victory over Morocco and was unable to complete his final training session before the game.

Spain Extend Unbeaten Run
Spain entered the semi-finals after edging Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-finals and have now extended their unbeaten streak to 37 consecutive matches.

France, meanwhile, had impressed throughout the knockout stage, winning Group I before defeating Sweden (3-0), Paraguay (1-0) and Morocco (2-0), conceding no goals prior to the semi-final.

Final Opponent to Be Decided
Spain will now face the winner of the second semi-final between Argentina and England, scheduled for 1:45 a.m. The victorious side will contest the World Cup final against Spain, while the losing team will meet France in the third-place playoff.