A stunning defensive collapse and a fearless Spanish side ended France's World Cup 2026 campaign in the semi-finals, leaving the 2022 runners-up to wonder what went wrong. On 14 July 2026, at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Spain beat France 2-0 to book their place in the final against either England or Argentina. It was a clinical performance from the Euro 2024 champions, who have not conceded a single goal all tournament, and a night of frustration for a French squad boasting stars like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé.
France, managed by Didier Deschamps, had reached the semi-finals with a strong run, scoring freely along the way. But against Spain, they were second best from the start. The opening goal came from a penalty: Lucas Digne, the Aston Villa left-back who is reportedly set to join Paris Saint-Germain, caught Lamine Yamal while attempting to clear the ball. Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and converted the spot-kick. Spain's second goal was even more embarrassing for the French defence. Pedro Porro exchanged a one-two with Dani Olmo around Digne, leaving the defender flat-footed. Porro had time to take two touches before finishing past Mike Maignan. It was the kind of goal that leaves pundits furious.
“France's World Cup 2026 semi-final exit to Spain explained.”
Roy Keane, the former Manchester United captain turned ITV pundit, launched into a scathing rant about France's display. “When I see these goals and I see players making these mistakes – it's clear (Digne's) confidence is gone, he doesn't know whether to stick or twist – you expect your mates to cover for you!” Keane said. “It happens all the time, players can get caught out of position, but no-one's helping. That's where they didn't play as a team.” He also criticised the midfield and defence for not giving the attackers a foundation to win the game. Digne, who endured a nightmare afternoon, was at fault for both goals – first conceding the penalty, then hesitating between pressing Yamal or tracking Porro's run.
France's attacking stars – Mbappé, Dembélé and others – were largely anonymous, though they did force Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón into some saves in the second half. But Spain held firm, maintaining their impeccable defensive record from the opening 0-0 draw with Cape Verde through to the semi-final. The European champions now await the winner of the other semi-final between England and Argentina, which takes place on 15 July at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The final is scheduled for Sunday 19 July.
Why it matters for UK readers
England could face Spain in the final – a chance for revenge after Spain beat them in the Euro 2024 final two years ago. If England get past Argentina, they will meet a Spanish side that has not conceded a single goal in the entire World Cup. For fans of English clubs, the performance of Lucas Digne – who is expected to leave Aston Villa for Paris Saint-Germain – and the struggles of France's big names might be a talking point for the rest of the tournament.
Q: What was the score in the France vs Spain World Cup semi-final? A: Spain beat France 2-0. Mikel Oyarzabal scored a penalty and Pedro Porro added a second goal, both in the first half.
Q: Why was Roy Keane angry with France? A: Roy Keane criticised France's lack of teamwork, particularly in defence and midfield. He said Lucas Digne's confidence was gone and that his teammates did not cover for him, leading to Spain's goals.
Q: Who will Spain play in the World Cup final? A: Spain will face either England or Argentina in the final on Sunday 19 July 2026. The other semi-final is on 15 July.
What happens next
Spain will prepare for the World Cup final on 19 July. Meanwhile, France must reflect on a tournament that promised much but ended in disappointment. Didier Deschamps' future may come under scrutiny, and players like Lucas Digne will have to rebuild their confidence. For neutral fans, the question is whether Spain can continue their remarkable defensive run and lift the trophy.
