Spain continued their remarkable rise under Luis de la Fuente by defeating France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, booking their place in the final and rewriting the history books in the process.
The victory was not only a statement of intent from La Roja, but it also saw them achieve four major records that underline their dominance over the last few years.
Spain Become First Team to Keep Six Clean Sheets at a World Cup
With another disciplined defensive display against France, Spain became the first team in FIFA World Cup history to record six clean sheets in a single edition of the tournament.
Their backline has been virtually impenetrable throughout the competition, conceding only once in the entire tournament and proving to be the foundation of their incredible run to the final.
Unbeaten Streak Reaches Historic Mark
Spain's win also extended their unbeaten run to 37 matches in all competitions (28 wins and 9 draws).
That streak now equals the longest unbeaten run by a European nation in football history, matching Italy's incredible 37-game sequence between October 2018 and September 2021.
With a World Cup final still to come, Spain now have the opportunity to claim the record outright.
Record-Breaking Knockout Dominance
Another milestone achieved on the night was Spain becoming the first European nation ever to win eight consecutive knockout-stage matches at major tournaments, including both the FIFA World Cup and UEFA European Championship.
Their consistency in high-pressure matches has transformed them into one of the most feared teams in international football.
France Continue to Struggle Against Spain
France's defeat also highlighted Spain's dominance in this rivalry. Over the last 20 years, France has lost to Spain eight times in 11 competitive meetings, more than against any other national side during that period.
Match Summary
Spain produced another masterclass to defeat France 2-0 in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final and secure their place in the final. After a tense opening period, La Roja took the lead in the 22nd minute when teenage sensation Lamine Yamal won a penalty following a foul by Lucas Digne. Veteran forward Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted from the spot to put Spain ahead. France tried to respond through Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, but Spain's organised defence and midfield control prevented Les Bleus from creating clear opportunities.
Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro, who finished off a slick passing move involving Dani Olmo. The European champions then expertly managed the remainder of the contest, frustrating France and recording a historic sixth clean sheet of the tournament. France's hopes of reaching a third consecutive World Cup final ended as Spain's composure, technical quality and defensive solidity proved too much for Didier Deschamps' side.
Eyes on the Final
The victory sends Spain into their first FIFA World Cup final since their historic triumph over the Netherlands in 2010.
La Roja will now wait to discover whether they will face England or Argentina as they bid to win a second World Cup title and complete one of the greatest unbeaten runs in international football history.
