The journey has come to an abrupt end for the French team. Les Bleus were knocked out of the 2026 World Cup in the semi-finals, suffering a 2-0 defeat to Spain. What was anticipated to be a fiercely contested match, almost a final in itself, ultimately proved to be a one-sided affair, with Spain firmly in control against an uninspired French attack.

First half woes: penalty and injury plague France

The initial half unfolded like a nightmare for Les Bleus. Amidst a series of intense physical challenges, the Spanish side skillfully leveraged the match’s high stakes to exert relentless pressure. This led to several dangerous fouls, notably Adrien Rabiot’s early challenge on Dani Olmo.

The decisive blow landed in the 20th minute when Lucas Digne, caught unaware, brought down Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area. Though the contact appeared minimal, it was sufficient to warrant a penalty. Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up, maintaining his perfect record from the spot, and confidently converted to open the scoring.

Further misfortune struck around the half-hour mark as William Saliba was forced off due to injury, with Maxence Lacroix entering the fray as his replacement.

Spain’s masterclass in the second goal

At halftime, sensing Adrien Rabiot’s growing tension and risk of a second yellow card, coach Didier Deschamps made a tactical change in midfield, bringing on Manu Koné. Despite his impressive showing against Morocco, the AS Roma player was unable to halt the relentless Spanish offensive.

In the 58th minute, Spain delivered a masterclass in attacking football, culminating in their second goal. Pedro Porro finished a brilliant one-two with Dani Olmo, who, despite being fouled at the edge of the box, managed to lay the ball off perfectly. This goal, a testament to the synergy between two of Spain’s standout performers in the tournament, effectively sealed the victory.

France appeared overwhelmed, and the scoreline almost worsened moments later. Lamine Yamal, after a solo run from the right wing, cut inside and fired past Mike Maignan, but his effort was ultimately disallowed in the 61st minute.

Deschamps’ desperate search for solutions

It cannot be said that Didier Deschamps didn’t try to change the tide. However, his substitutions failed to significantly alter the game’s momentum. The introductions of Désiré Doué before the hour mark, followed by Théo Hernandez and Rayan Cherki, did little to threaten the well-organized Spanish defense. Conversely, Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, also had strong options on his bench, deploying Ferran Torres, Pedri, Mikel Merino, and Nico Williams to great effect.

In the final ten minutes of regular time, the French made a concerted effort to press forward, but they struggled to create clear-cut chances or even test the Spanish goalkeeper. A notable opportunity arose when Unai Simon ventured out of his box, but Désiré Doué hesitated, failing to attempt a lob.

Thus, Spain advances to its first World Cup final since their triumph in 2010. The Roja now awaits the winner of Wednesday evening’s semi-final clash between Argentina and England.