Spain outplays France 2-0, ending Les Bleus' knockout streak

ARLINGTON, July 15 – In a decisive semi‑final clash at Dallas Stadium, Spain secured a 2-0 victory over France, halting the French side’s once‑unbeaten run in World Cup knockout rounds. The Spaniards’ disciplined performance, highlighted by a penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal at the 22‑minute mark and a second strike by Pedro Porro in the second half, left Les Bleus with no chance of a comeback.

The French squad, led by coach Didier Deschamps, entered the match hoping to replicate the attacking flair that had taken them to previous finals. Instead, they struggled to break down a compact Spanish back line. Deschamps later reflected, “Our attack lacked the edge we needed, and technically we were below our usual standards.”

France’s inability to capitalize on chances was evident, with several passes in the attacking third turning over and creating few clear shooting opportunities. The technical errors, according to the coach, were “the harsh reality of elite football.”

The defeat marked the end of an impressive knockout record for France – the first loss in a World Cup knockout tie since the 2014 quarter‑final loss to Germany. Prior to this match, France had set a record of eleven consecutive unbeaten knockout games, consisting of ten wins and a single draw.

A further setback occurred when central defender William Saliba suffered an injury during the first half and was replaced by Maxence Lacroix. Deschamps defended the early substitution, stating it was a necessary precaution to avoid further risk.

With the final now out of reach, France will face the third‑place playoff. When questioned about his future, Deschamps said, “I’m proud of our achievements, but now we must accept the loss, congratulate Spain, and prepare for the next challenge.”