Spain produced a disciplined and clinical display to defeat France 2-0 on Tuesday night, booking their place in the FIFA World Cup final and ending Les Bleus’ bid to reach a third consecutive final.
The victory sends the 2010 champions into only the second World Cup final in their history, where they will face either defending champions Argentina or England on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Spain seized control in the 22nd minute after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal won a penalty following a challenge by France defender Lucas Digne inside the box.
Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted from the spot, scoring his fifth goal of the tournament and handing France their first deficit of the competition.
The goal also underlined Spain’s impressive defensive record, with the Spaniards having conceded just one goal throughout the tournament compared to France’s three before the semi-final.
Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute when full-back Pedro Porro finished brilliantly from close range, leaving French goalkeeper Mike Maignan with no chance.
Despite boasting attacking stars led by Kylian Mbappé, France struggled to break down Spain’s organised defence and failed to score for the first time in the knockout stage.
The defeat ends France’s hopes of becoming only the second European nation to reach three consecutive World Cup finals after West Germany.
Mbappé, who entered the match level with Argentina captain Lionel Messi on eight goals in the race for the Golden Boot, was unable to add to his tally despite starting the match after recovering from the injury scare he suffered against Morocco.
Spain now stand one victory away from lifting their second World Cup title as they await the winner of Wednesday’s blockbuster semi-final between England and Argentina.
