Spain advances to final after defeating France in semifinal match
Spain secures final berth
Spain defeated France in a World Cup semifinal match, advancing to the final for the first time since winning its only world title. The Spanish team delivered a controlled performance, despite similar possession statistics between the two sides. This victory means Spain will proceed to the final, while France will compete in the bronze medal game.
The match saw Spain execute a strategy of high pressure, strong defense, and precise passing, which contributed to their control of the game. Coach Luis de la Fuente noted the team’s discipline, organization, sacrifice, and commitment. He emphasized that the players’ ability to interpret and read the game, both defensively and offensively, is a result of their training in academies.
Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty kick in the 22nd minute, and Pedro Porro scored the second goal in the 58th minute following a combination with Dani Olmo. This performance left France with limited opportunities to penetrate the Spanish defense, which remained largely impenetrable throughout the match.
French disappointment and reflections
France coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged Spain’s strong performance, stating that his team did not play the match they intended, either tactically or technically. He conceded that Spain‘s ability to control the game surpassed that of France. Deschamps also noted that Spain effectively closed down spaces, making it difficult for his team to create chances.
Kylian Mbappé echoed his coach’s sentiments, expressing disappointment with France‘s overall performance level. He highlighted the team’s failure to press Spain high up the pitch to disrupt their controlled rhythm. The French team, despite featuring players like Mbappé and Michael Olise, struggled to break through Spain‘s defense.
Following the loss, L’Équipe, a French publication, gave low ratings to several French players for their semifinal showing, including Olise, Ousmane Dembélé, and Lucas Digne, with Mbappé receiving a slightly higher mark. This outcome marks France‘s worst World Cup finish since 2014. Deschamps, who will conclude his 14-year tenure after the third-place match in Miami, expressed pride in his work with the national team despite the current disappointment.
Looking ahead to the final
Spain will play in the final at the New York New Jersey Stadium. The team will face either Argentina or England. Coach Luis de la Fuente, who oversaw the 2024 European championship title, will carry a 37-game unbeaten streak into the final. He expressed immense pride in the team’s achievement and the joy it has brought to the country.
The Spanish team has shown consistent improvement throughout the tournament, securing six victories after an initial scoreless draw with Cape Verde and conceding only one goal overall. Forward Mikel Oyarzabal expressed the team’s ambition to take one more step and make history in the final. The final will also feature a closing ceremony with performances by various artists.
Lamine Yamal, a winger from FC Barcelona who turned 19 on Monday, played a significant role in the semifinal, drawing the first-half penalty kick and showcasing his skills. The collective effort of the Spanish players, working together for the benefit of the whole group, has been a key factor in their success. King Felipe VI of Spain called coach de la Fuente to congratulate the team on their victory.
The final match will be held on Sunday at MetLife Stadium.
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Source: theguardian.com
