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.” Roy Keane, another Premier League winner, said on 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.”
“Spain beat France 2-0 in the World Cup semi-final, ending France's unbeaten run and booking a final date with England or Argentina.”
Luis de la Fuente's men have rather flown under the radar at this World Cup – even failing to beat debutants Cape Verde in their opening match – and teenage superstar Lamine Yamal has scored just one goal. But they appear to have hit peak form at the right time and, having kept a clean sheet in six of their seven games, can expect to be favourites for Sunday's World Cup final. France, meanwhile, must prepare for the third-place play-off after managing just three attempts on target.
When 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 equalled Italy's record for the longest unbeaten run in international football – 37 matches. The five European players with the most appearances at the World Cup/European Championship combined without ever losing all play for Spain. Their opponents on Sunday will be either Argentina or England – England play Argentina in the other semi-final on Wednesday. If England win in Atlanta, they will set up a repeat of the European Championship final of two years ago. England have received a fitness boost with Thomas Tuchel confirming Declan Rice is fit to start, while defender Marc Guehi insists all the pressure is on Argentina. “There isn’t pressure on us. What’s the pressure? The onus is on them. They’re the World Champions. They need to come out, they need to defend their title. There’s no pressure on us at all,” he said.