Spain produced a tactical masterclass to defeat tournament favourites France 2-0 on Tuesday and book their place in the World Cup final, ending Les Bleus’ hopes of claiming a record-equalling third title.
A first-half penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal and a 58th-minute strike from Pedro Porro secured a clinical victory for the European champions at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Spain, who won the World Cup in 2010, will face either Argentina or England in Sunday’s final in New Jersey.
France entered the semi-final as the tournament favourites after an impressive, free-scoring run to the last four. However, their star-studded attack — led by captain Kylian Mbappé, Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola and Michael Olise — was neutralised by Spain’s disciplined defending and dominant midfield display.
Spain, who had defeated France in their previous two competitive meetings, promised to attack from the outset and delivered on that plan.
Their midfield trio of Manchester City’s Rodri, Fabián Ruiz and Dani Olmo controlled the tempo throughout, overwhelming France’s central pairing of Adrien Rabiot and Aurélien Tchouaméni and preventing Les Bleus from establishing any rhythm.
France’s early struggles were highlighted after only nine minutes when Rabiot was booked for a foul on Olmo just outside the box.
Despite Spain’s early dominance, France threatened on the counterattack, and they nearly took the lead in the 16th minute when Pau Cubarsí made a crucial block to deny Mbappé after the French captain broke into space.
Spain take control
Spain’s pressure eventually paid off in the 20th minute when Marc Cucurella’s cross caused confusion in the French defence.
Lucas Digne failed to clear the danger cleanly, and his attempted clearance caught Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal, sending him to the ground inside the box. Referee Iván Barton immediately awarded a penalty.
Oyarzabal stepped up and calmly converted, sending goalkeeper Mike Maignan the wrong way to give Spain the lead.
France’s problems deepened after 31 minutes when central defender William Saliba was forced off with an injury, with Maxence Lacroix replacing him.
Spain came close to doubling their advantage before half-time after a brilliant passing move opened up the French defence, but Dayot Upamecano’s block denied Fabián Ruiz.
France responded late in the first half, with only a sharp save from Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón preventing Mbappé from equalising after a clever pass from Rabiot.
However, Spain resumed control after the break, and France coach Didier Deschamps’ tactical adjustments failed to disrupt Spain’s midfield dominance.
The decisive second goal arrived in the 58th minute. Porro combined brilliantly with Olmo on the edge of the area before finishing calmly past Maignan to put Spain in control.
Spain thought they had added a third three minutes later, but Yamal’s effort was ruled out for a marginal offside.
Deschamps introduced fresh attacking options in an attempt to revive France’s hopes, but Spain’s organised defence remained firm. Their best opportunity came when Mbappé’s effort was blocked by Simón at the near post.
Mbappé’s frustration was evident in the closing stages as he was booked for a late challenge on the Spanish goalkeeper, while Spain comfortably managed the final minutes to seal their place in the final.
AFP
