Spain displayed a commanding performance, sealing their spot in only their second World Cup final and leaving observers amazed at how France were overwhelmed.
France entered Tuesday’s highly anticipated semi‑final as clear favorites, having sailed through the tournament with Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise driving a potent attack.
Yet Spain reminded everyone why they hold the European title and are unbeaten in a record‑equalling 37 matches, cruising to a 2‑0 victory.
Luis de la Fuente’s squad had flown under the radar at this World Cup — even failing to defeat debutants Cape Verde in their opener — and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has netted just one goal.
Nevertheless, they appear to have peaked at the perfect moment, having kept clean sheets in six of their seven games, and can now be considered favorites for Sunday’s final against either Argentina or England.
France, meanwhile, must turn their attention to the third‑place play‑off after being frustrated by a Spanish midfield masterclass and managing only three shots on target.
“Spain outclassed France — they were simply flattened,” remarked former Premier League champion Chris Sutton, who attended the match for BBC Radio 5 Live.
“We have lauded France throughout this tournament, but they were brushed aside by Spain’s silky play. In essence, Spain out-fought and out-played this French side.”
“France were not functioning as a unit. Brilliant individuals failing to play as a team,” said former Premier League star Roy Keane.
“Spain have been absolutely brilliant — a pleasure to watch.”
When de la Fuente was appointed Spain’s head coach in December 2022, some questioned his credentials, dubbing him “Luis de la Who?”
Spain, world champions under Vicente del Bosque in 2010, are accustomed to high‑profile leaders, and de la Fuente was seen as a low‑key federation pick after his spells with the U‑19, U‑21 and U‑23 sides.
But the 65‑year‑old has silenced the doubters.
Having guided Spain to Nations League success in 2023 and Euro 2024 triumph, he now steers them to the World Cup final.
If England prevail in Atlanta on Wednesday, they will set up a rematch of the European Championship final from two years ago.
