The World Cup journey for the France national team came to an abrupt and disappointing end. Les Bleus were knocked out in the semi-finals of the 2026 tournament, falling to Spain by a score of 2-0. What was anticipated to be a fiercely contested encounter ultimately saw Spain assert clear dominance, leaving the French squad struggling to make an impact.

Early misfortunes: penalty and injury plague France in first half

The opening half proved particularly challenging for Les Bleus. Amidst a series of intense physical challenges, the Spanish team capitalized on the match’s high stakes to relentlessly apply pressure. This led to several dangerous fouls, notably Adrien Rabiot’s early challenge on Dani Olmo.

The decisive blow arrived in the 20th minute when Lucas Digne, caught unaware, brought down Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area. Although the contact appeared minimal, it was sufficient for the referee to award a penalty. Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and flawlessly converted from the spot, putting Spain ahead.

Further adversity struck France around the half-hour mark when William Saliba was forced off the field due to injury, replaced by Maxence Lacroix.

Spain’s masterclass in attack seals second goal

At halftime, recognizing Adrien Rabiot’s growing tension and proximity to a second yellow card, coach Didier Deschamps made a tactical substitution, bringing on Manu Koné. Despite his impressive performance against Morocco, the AS Roma midfielder was unable to halt Spain’s formidable offensive machine.

In the 58th minute, La Roja delivered a masterclass in attacking football, culminating in their second goal. Pedro Porro finished a superb one-two play with Dani Olmo, who managed to return the ball to Porro despite being fouled just outside the box, securing a crucial two-goal lead. This sequence perfectly encapsulated the exceptional form of both players throughout the tournament.

With France reeling, the score nearly widened moments later. Lamine Yamal embarked on a solo run from the right flank, cutting inside before unleashing a shot past Mike Maignan, but the goal was ultimately disallowed in the 61st minute.

Deschamps’ tactical changes fail to inspire comeback

Didier Deschamps certainly tried to alter the game’s momentum, but his substitutions proved insufficient to turn the tide. The introductions of Désiré Doué before the hour mark, followed by Théo Hernandez and Rayan Cherki, failed to penetrate Spain’s resolute defense. On the opposing side, Luis de la Fuente also had strong options from his bench, bringing on Ferran Torres, Pedri, Mikel Merino, and Nico Williams to maintain their advantage.

In the final ten minutes of regulation time, the French team attempted a late surge, but their efforts lacked precision, failing to register a single shot on target. Even a daring charge from goalkeeper Unai Simon outside his box was poorly exploited by Désiré Doué, who hesitated to attempt a lob.

Consequently, Spain will now contest their first World Cup final since their triumphant campaign in 2010. La Roja awaits the winner of Wednesday evening’s second semi-final between Argentina and England.