Spain deliver masterclass to sink France and reach World Cup final

Spain produced a tactical masterpiece to beat World Cup favourites France 2-0 in the semi-final on Tuesday at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Mikel Oyarzabal's first-half penalty and a second-half strike from Pedro Porro secured a clinical victory for the 2010 world champions.

The Spanish midfield, led by Rodri, Fabian Ruiz and Dani Olmo, dominated the game from the outset, suffocating France's vaunted attack featuring Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Bradley Barcola and Michael Olise. France's midfield duo of Adrien Rabiot and Aurélien Tchouameni were overrun, with Rabiot receiving an early yellow card.

Spain took the lead in the 20th minute when Marc Cucurella's cross caused chaos in the French box. Lucas Digne's clumsy attempted clearance resulted in a foul on Lamine Yamal, and Oyarzabal calmly converted the penalty. France's woes deepened when defender William Saliba limped off injured after 31 minutes.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Spain controlling possession and cutting through the French defence. In the 58th minute, Porro combined brilliantly with Olmo before slotting past goalkeeper Mike Maignan. A third goal was ruled out for offside, but Spain's defence held firm. Mbappé's late booking summed up French frustration.

Spain will now face the winner of the other semi-final between England and Argentina in Sunday's final in New Jersey.