A Near-Perfect Match for La Roja

According to reports from Argentine media like La Nación and TN, the squad managed by Luis de la Fuente was vastly superior to the French side physically, mentally, and tactically. Solidarity in defense and midfield precision, led by an imposing Rodri, were key to silencing the French stars.

France, who had been the tournament's second-highest scoring team with 16 goals (just behind Argentina with 17), couldn't find a way to trouble the Spanish backline. Kylian Mbappé, who had 8 goals in the tournament, and Ousmane Dembélé, with 5 goals, were completely neutralized. When they managed to shoot, goalkeeper Unai Simón was alert to prevent the comeback, notably during a one-on-one against Dembélé in the second half.

The Lamine Yamal Factor and France's Containment

Young Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, who turned 19 years old on July 13, 2026, was a constant nightmare on the right wing. His speed and dribbling generated the first goal's penalty and forced French defender Lucas Digne into fatal mistakes that cost the match. On the French side, coach Didier Deschamps tried to change the strategy by bringing on players like Desiré Doué, but the team never managed to string clear passes together in the opponent's half.

Captain Mbappé showed his frustration during the game and even received a yellow card after hitting goalkeeper Unai Simón. Spain perfectly managed the game's tempo, recycling possession smartly and effectively cutting off French counterattacks.

Who Will Be the Final Rival?

With this qualification, Spain reaches their second World Cup final in history (the first was in South Africa 2010, where they became champions). The Spanish squad now awaits the result of the other semifinal to be played on July 15, 2026 at 16:00 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, where Argentina and England will face off. The grand final is scheduled for next Sunday in New Jersey.

Spanish football proves that collective play and trust in young talents are the perfect recipe to inspire a whole nation. Get ready for the 2026 World Cup final!