Spain dominate France to secure World Cup final berth
Spain’s commanding performance
Spain have advanced to the World Cup final after a dominant 2-0 victory over France in Dallas. The win marks Spain‘s first appearance in a World Cup final since 2010. They are now set to face either England or Argentina in New Jersey on Sunday.
The match saw Spain assert control, effectively stifling France‘s attacking threats. Kylian Mbappé, who had been a key player throughout the tournament, had a limited impact, managing only two touches in Spain‘s penalty area during the first half. His late effort in added time went harmlessly over the bar, reflecting France‘s struggle to create meaningful opportunities.
Spain‘s strategy involved maintaining possession and denying France space, particularly during transitions. Their midfielders consistently found each other, breaking up play when necessary. This approach proved effective against a France team that appeared to lack intensity throughout the match.
Key moments and goals
The opening goal for Spain came from a penalty awarded after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal. Digne, attempting to clear a cross from Marc Cucurella, inadvertently nudged the ball past himself, leading to the foul on the onrushing Yamal. Despite a review for a potential handball by Yamal, the penalty decision stood as contact was deemed legal above the sleeve line.
Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted the penalty, scoring his fifth goal of the tournament. This goal set the tone for Spain‘s performance, as they produced what was described as a masterclass in control. France failed to create a single chance before the interval, with Unai Simón‘s clearance ahead of Mbappé being their only notable moment near Spain‘s goal.
The second goal for Spain was a well-executed play involving Dani Olmo and Pedro Porro. Olmo managed to return Porro‘s pass into his path, creating a significant gap on France‘s left side. Porro surged into the space and scored, leaving Mike Maignan with no chance. This goal solidified Spain‘s lead and further highlighted their precision and flair.
Lamine Yamal was heavily involved in Spain‘s attack, even having a potential third goal disallowed for a narrow offside call. Substitutes like Ferran Torres also had chances, heading wide. Mbappé did manage an angled effort that Simón batted behind, and another shot was deflected wide by Cucurella, but France was never allowed a serious opening.
France’s struggles and player performances
France‘s performance was hampered by several factors, including injuries and tactical decisions. William Saliba departed the game due to injury shortly after Oyarzabal‘s spot-kick, a sad end to his World Cup campaign. Adrien Rabiot, who was booked early for a foul on Dani Olmo, was replaced at half-time, having been a potential risk for a second yellow card.
Midfield struggles were evident for France, with Aurélien Tchouaméni returning to the starting lineup but unable to string anything together. Bradley Barcola, preferred over Désiré Doué on the left, showed little composure. Michael Olise, who had been a star for much of the summer, had his poorest performance of the tournament and was eventually replaced by Rayan Cherki.
Ousmane Dembélé, a Ballon d’Or winner, was unable to impose himself as Spain controlled the game. His afternoon was summed up by an overcooked pass for Jules Koundé. The collective strength of Spain‘s team overshadowed the individual flair of France‘s front four, who had been prominent earlier in the tournament.
Ratings for France‘s starting XI included Mike Maignan (5), Jules Kounde (5), Dayot Upamecano (5), William Saliba (6), Lucas Digne (5), Aurelien Tchouameni (5), Adrien Rabiot (4), Ousmane Dembele (4), Michael Olise (5), Bradley Barcola (5), and Kylian Mbappe (5). Substitutes also received low ratings, with Manu Kone (4) and Desire Doue (4) unable to make a significant impact.
In contrast, Spain‘s players received higher ratings for their performances. Unai Simon earned a 7, marking his sixth clean sheet in seven matches. Pedro Porro, who scored a wonderful goal, received a 7 and now has three goal involvements in the tournament. Pau Cubarsi and Aymeric Laporte were strong in defence, with Laporte achieving over 90% passing accuracy and earning an 8 rating. Marc Cucurella received a 6.
Rodri was highlighted as the player of the match with a rating of 9 for his outstanding performance as Spain‘s captain, dominating the midfield. Fabian Ruiz received a 7, while Lamine Yamal, who won the penalty, earned an 8. Dani Olmo received a 7 for his class touches and disruptive play. Alex Baena received a 6, and Mikel Oyarzabal, who scored the penalty, received a 7. Substitutes like Ferran Torres (6), Mikel Merino (6), Pedri (6), Marcos Llorente (5), and Nico Williams (5) contributed to securing the win.
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Source: theguardian.com
