The World Cup dream for the French squad came to an abrupt end. Les Bleus were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup in the semi-finals, succumbing to a 2-0 defeat against a superior Spain. What many anticipated as a pre-final showdown ultimately lacked genuine contest, as La Roja asserted complete control over a French team that struggled to pose any significant threat.

First half woes: penalty and injury plague les bleus

The opening half quickly descended into a nightmare for the French national team. Amidst a series of intense physical exchanges, the Spanish capitalized on the high-stakes atmosphere, relentlessly increasing pressure. This led to several dangerous fouls, notably Adrien Rabiot’s early challenge on Dani Olmo.

The decisive blow arrived in the 20th minute when Lucas Digne, caught unaware, fouled Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area. While the contact appeared minimal, it was sufficient for the referee to award a penalty. Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up, maintaining his perfect record from the spot, and calmly converted to open the scoring for Spain.

Adding to France’s misfortune, William Saliba was forced to leave the field due to injury around the half-hour mark, with Maxence Lacroix coming on 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, Didier Deschamps opted for a midfield change, introducing Manu Koné. Despite his impressive performance against Morocco, the AS Roma player was unable to halt the relentless Spanish offensive.

In the 58th minute, La Roja delivered a footballing lesson in offensive construction, culminating in their second goal. Pedro Porro finished a brilliant one-two with Dani Olmo, who managed to return the ball despite being fouled just outside the box. This goal, a testament to the synergy between two of Spain’s standout performers in the tournament, effectively sealed their victory.

With their backs against the wall, Les Bleus nearly conceded again moments later. Lamine Yamal’s solo effort, cutting in from the right flank before striking past Mike Maignan, was ultimately disallowed in the 61st minute.

Deschamps’ desperate search for solutions

It cannot be said that Didier Deschamps didn’t try to turn the tide. However, his substitutions, including the introductions of Désiré Doué before the hour mark, followed by Théo Hernandez and Rayan Cherki, failed to penetrate the well-organized Spanish defense. Conversely, Luis de la Fuente had his own strong options on the bench, bringing on Ferran Torres, Pedri, Mikel Merino, and Nico Williams to maintain Spain’s dominance.

As the clock wound down with just ten minutes left in regular time, the French made desperate attempts to ignite their attack, but they couldn’t find a way to convert, or even register a shot on target. This included a missed opportunity when Désiré Doué hesitated to lob Unai Simon after the Spanish goalkeeper ventured outside his area.

Consequently, Spain will now compete in their first World Cup final since their triumph in 2010. La Roja awaits the winner of Wednesday evening’s clash between Argentina and England.