France, who had dominated the FIFA World Cup to reach the semi-finals, looked helpless against Spain today. France, who had played incredible football throughout the tournament, were nowhere to be found in the semi-final.
The two-time world champions were eliminated in the final four after a 2-0 defeat to a brilliant Spanish side.
With this victory, Spain has reached the final for the first time in 16 years, marking their first appearance on the championship stage since 2010.
In the ninth minute, Olmo won a free kick just outside the French box. Baena took the kick, but the ball struck the defensive wall.
France had a golden opportunity in the 14th minute when, off a counter-attack, Mbappe sprinted into the box with only Poro and the goalkeeper ahead of him. However, Cubarsí and Laporte held their positions to deny him.
The last tournament's runners-up could not find a way back into the match after falling behind to a 22nd-minute penalty by Mikel Oyarzabal.
The much-discussed trio of Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, and Michael Olise failed to make any significant impact.
Conversely, after the break, Pedro Poro scored for Spain to effectively knock France out of the match.
For a team that played so aggressively throughout the World Cup, such an exit is deeply disappointing for their supporters.
In contrast, Spain was dynamic and aggressive, exerting pressure on France from the start.
With a solid defense, a fast-paced midfield, and an aggressive attack, they delivered an extraordinary performance, giving the French side no opportunity to recover.
They were ultimately rewarded for their efforts by securing a spot in the final.
Spain will face the winner of the Argentina vs. England match in the final on Sunday night (July 19).
