Spain defeated France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup semifinal on July 14 in Arlington, Texas, to qualify for the 2026 World Cup final. Spain will face the winner of the England vs Argentina semifinal in the title clash.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed disappointment after France's defeat, stating in a post on X, "Tonight's defeat is hard to take," while thanking Les Bleus for their run to the last four of the tournament.
Bravo à l'Espagne pour cette qualification. Merci aux Bleus d'avoir porté nos couleurs avec engagement. La défaite de ce soir est difficile, mais cette équipe est jeune et pleine d'avenir.
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 14, 2026
Before the semifinal, Macron had said that he would travel to the United States only if France qualified for the World Cup final. France's defeat means that the visit may not take place.
The second semifinal will take place in Atlanta as England and Argentina clash in what is likely to be a fierce contest between two great rivals. The game will feature some of the biggest names in world football, with Lionel Messi, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane all set to be involved.
ALSO READ: 'Is The Ref Good Enough For A World Cup Semi-Final?' Deschamps Questions Official After France Loss
During the match, Mikel Oyarzabal gave Spain the lead from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal was fouled inside the penalty area, while Pedro Porro doubled the advantage in the 58th minute with a finish following a passing move involving Dani Olmo.
Spain's disciplined defensive performance neutralised France's attack, which featured Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Micheal Olise.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also celebrated the victory on his official X account, congratulating the team on reaching the World Cup final.
E S P E C T A C U L A R
— Pedro Sánchez (@sanchezcastejon) July 14, 2026
¡A LA FINAL!
Una vez más, la @SEFutbol nos hace soñar.
¡Vamos, España! ???????? https://t.co/OsqVcwa7si
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares similarly congratulated the team on social media, praising Spain's achievement after the semi-final victory.
!Sois nuestro orgullo @SEFutbol! ¡ A un paso de la gloria! https://t.co/H7IQVIVzXb
— José Manuel Albares (@jmalbares) July 14, 2026
Football fans and former players praised Spain's disciplined defensive display and the performances of Yamal, Oyarzabal and Porro across social media following the match.
ALSO READ: England vs Argentina: 'Hand of God' To Beckham Red Card — A Look At Fierce World Cup Rivalry
Essential Business Intelligence, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice, Daily Fuel, Gold and Silver Prices and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.