Spain produced an absolute masterclass in control to secure their place in just their second World Cup final, leaving the rest of the world stunned at how France were blown away. Les Bleus went into Tuesday's eagerly anticipated semi-final as overwhelming favourites having cruised through the tournament, with the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise making them an attacking force to be feared. But while many were questioning how France could be beaten, Spain reminded everyone why they are European champions and unbeaten in a record-equalling 37 matches by running out 2-0 winners.
"Spain scalped France - they flattened France," said former Premier League champion Chris Sutton, who was at the game for BBC Radio 5 Live. "We have given France so much praise in this tournament, but they were swatted aside by silky Spain. In the main, Spain have outfought and outplayed this French team."
“Spain thrashed France 2-0 to reach the World Cup final, leaving the favourites stunned.”
Roy Keane, another Premier League winner, told ITV: "France were not playing as a team. Brilliant individuals not playing as a team. Spain have been absolutely brilliant - an absolute joy to watch."
When Luis de la Fuente was appointed Spain boss in December 2022, some referred to him as: "Luis de la Who?" Spain – world champions under Vicente del Bosque in 2010 – are used to being led by high-profile personalities, and de la Fuente was viewed as a low-key federation appointment after his time in charge of the nation's under-19s, under-21s and under-23s. But the 65-year-old has given an emphatic response to the doubters. Having led Spain to a Nations League triumph in 2023 and Euro 2024 glory, he has now guided them to the World Cup final.
Spain have kept a clean sheet in six of their seven games and managed just three attempts on target against a France side that was frustrated by a midfield masterclass. Spain have equalled Italy's record for the longest unbeaten run in international football – 37 matches. If England win in Atlanta on Wednesday, they will set up a repeat of the European Championship final of two years ago. Otherwise, Spain will face Argentina in Sunday's final.
