Spain have marched into the World Cup final after a remarkable 2-0 win over an out-of-sorts France side that showed none of the Kylian Mbappe-inspired danger imposed in their run to the last four.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal drew a foul on the very edge of the box.
France defender Lucas Digne was trying to collect the ball after an awkward bounce when Yamal raced in from behind and was kicked.
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But though that was fortunate Spain suffocated France and had the ball in the back of the net twice in the second half.
Pedro Porro put the foot down in a neat one-two with Dani Olmo to fire home unchallenged for the 2010 champions in the 58th minute.
Spain sensed an opening again just minutes later but Yamal, who again outworked Digne as he had all day, was ruled offside as he began celebrating what would have been just his second goal of the tournament.
Still the comfortable victory sent Spain into their first final since lifting the trophy 16 years ago — and ended France’s long run of success after they triumphed in 2018 and lost to Argentina in the 2022 decider.
“Totally outplayed, France, totally outplayed. It’s been as close to perfection as you’d ever see, really, from Spain,” Alan Smith said in commentary.
“Hard to pick out an individual, it’s been such a wonderful team effort — everyone’s been an eight out of 10 at least. Exceptional from the Spaniards here.”
It was a disappointing end for Didier Deschamps’ side and their superstar Mbappe, who had few chances to shine against a disciplined Spain outfit who have conceded just one goal in the tournament.
Spain will face defending champions Argentina or England, who play off in their semi-final on Wednesday (Thursday AEST) in the final on Sunday (Monday AEST).
