FIFA World Cup 2026: Spain reach final

It was described as the final before the final, the most feared forward line in the competition against the tightest defence. It's France against Spain in the World Cup semis. Let's get into it. Well, Dallas saw an epic matchup between two European heavyweights. France, the World Cup favourites, looking for a semifinal win on Bastille Day, standing in their way a Spain side that has made a habit of beating them in semifinals, including a 5-4 win in the 2025 UEFA Nations League and a 2-1 win in the 2024 Euros. But with attackers like Mbappe, Dembele and Alisse, surely it would be third time lucky for the French. But Spain had Rodri, Ruiz and Olmo in midfield. It's not as glamorous, but they boss Leblanc throughout the match. Spain also have Lamine Yamal and it was the 19-year-old who won a penalty for his side after he was brought down in the first half. Mikel Oriathabel putting away the spot kick for his fifth goal at this World Cup. While the second half was more of the same, France rarely threatening, Spain snuffing out their attacks. And with nearly an hour gone, Pedro Porro doubles Spain's lead. 2-0 to Spain was how it finished. They've extended their unbeaten run to 37 consecutive matches. That equals Italy's all-time record to screen. Their victory was celebrated all over Spain, from the royal family to fans on the streets of Madrid and Valencia, scenes that were repeated right across the country. They can all now look forward to Spain's second appearance in a World Cup final. But who will they meet in New York, England and Argentina? It's over to you. Don't forget you can catch all the World Cup match highlights and reaction on aljazeera.com and we're on Instagram. Follow AJEsports for the latest World Cup news, analysis and highlights.