Spain Reach First World Cup Final Since 2010 After 2-0 Win Over France

By Carew Abdullateef

Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup final for the first time since 2010 after defeating France 2-0 in their semi-final clash.

The match was billed as one of the biggest fixtures of the tournament, with both teams entering the encounter in impressive form. France started brightly and dominated the early stages, looking the more likely side to score.

However, Spain struck first when Lamine Yamal won a penalty after Lucas Digne brought him down inside the box. Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to give Spain the lead.

The goal changed the momentum of the game as Spain began to take control of possession and dictate the pace. France’s problems worsened in the first half when defender William Saliba was forced off with an injury and replaced by Maxence Lacroix.

Spain continued to frustrate the French attack after the break, with Didier Deschamps’ side struggling to create clear-cut chances despite seeing plenty of the ball.

Their task became even more difficult in the 58th minute when Pedro Porro finished off a well-worked team move to double Spain’s advantage.

Spain remained disciplined for the rest of the contest, winning possession effectively and repeatedly disrupting France’s attacking play. The 2018 world champions were unable to find a way back into the match and paid the price for their poor finishing and sloppy play in key moments.

The victory sends Spain into the World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the other semi-final, while France will now compete in the third-place playoff.

For Spain, it marks a return to the biggest stage in world football 16 years after they lifted their first and only World Cup title in South Africa.

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