Spain’s Defense Prevails Against France in World Cup Semifinal

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Spain’s formidable defense overshadowed the attacking prowess of Kylian Mbappé and France’s team in the World Cup semifinals. Spain secured a spot in the final with a 2-0 victory, marking their sixth shutout in seven games.

Teenager Lamine Yamal had noted France should be cautious despite their talented lineup led by Mbappé. Prior to the semifinals, Mbappé had scored 20 goals in 20 World Cup appearances. Alongside him were Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise, known for his tournament-leading five assists.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente stated, “We faced one of the best national teams, but today, they encountered the best team.” The match saw Mikel Oyarzabal score from a penalty, following a foul drawn through Yamal’s smart play. Pedro Porro added another goal, advancing Spain to their second World Cup final.

Despite being denied a goal due to a close offside, Yamal’s clever maneuvering against a seasoned defender provided Spain with an early advantage. Spain will face either Argentina or England on Sunday in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

“It’s tough reaching this point, but we aim for victory,” said Spain midfielder Rodri.

France, aiming for a third consecutive World Cup final, will compete in the third-place match in Miami Gardens, Florida. France coach Didier Deschamps, through a translator, acknowledged Spain’s strong defense and some technical errors on France’s part.

This marked Spain’s third consecutive summer victory over France in a tournament semifinal, with notable wins in the 2024 European Championship and Nations League. Yamal highlighted the need for France to be wary following Spain’s quarterfinal triumph over Belgium.

Mbappé found it challenging, especially with none of his three shots on target, saying, “Spain controls the game and the ball, and that’s what we allowed them to do.” Spain surpassed their opponents 12-1, allowing one goal in the quarterfinal win over Belgium by goalkeeper Unai Simón, ending his record of 650 scoreless minutes.

Spain’s unbeaten streak in regular time now extends to 37 matches since March 2024, breaking their previous record of 35 consecutive wins from 2007-09. France’s streak of six World Cup victories was halted by this defeat.

Oyarzabal’s penalty resulted from Yamal being fouled by defender Lucas Digne in the 22nd minute, marking Oyarzabal’s fifth goal in the tournament. The second goal involved Porro’s collaboration with Dani Olmo.

France conceded only two goals in their prior six matches. Spain had additional scoring chances during the match, including a free kick from Alex Baena halted by France’s defense. Fabian Ruiz’s shot was also thwarted by Dayot Upamecano.

Mbappé, tied with Argentina’s Lionel Messi for eight goals in the tournament, still has the third-place match to enhance his tally. Messi, participating in his sixth World Cup, aims to seize the Golden Boot.

“I accept the responsibility as captain,” Mbappé remarked. “We aspired to reach the final and didn’t achieve that.”