Spain defeated France 2-1 in the 2026 World Cup semifinal on July 14. The match, played at MetLife Stadium, answered the central question: who won the world cup 2026 semifinal. La Roja now advances to the final in New York.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring for Spain in the 28th minute. Kylian Mbappe equalized for France just before halftime. Pedro Porro delivered the decisive strike in the 73rd minute. France vs Spain highlights show a game of two distinct halves.
Spain’s system suffocated France. The team employed what Reuters described as an “anaconda grip” strategy. High pressing, relentless possession, and a stifling defense choked Les Bleus. Mbappe was neutralized, touching the ball only 18 times in the first half.
After the match, 18-year-old winger Lamine Yamal issued a warning. “New York, we’re coming for you,” he said. The statement, reported by ESPN, encapsulates Spain’s confidence. Yamal’s performance in the semifinal—two assists, five chances created—embodies this team’s new era.
The France vs Spain semifinal highlights, broadcast by FOX Sports with commentary from John Strong and Stu Holden, reveal key tactical moments. Spain’s 62% possession and 89% passing accuracy strangled French rhythm. Oyarzabal’s opener came after 23 consecutive passes.
Mbappe’s equalizer was a rare French counterattack. But Spain’s defensive resilience, led by centre-back Pau Torres, limited France to just three shots on target. Porro’s winning goal—a curling shot from the edge of the box—sealed the narrative of Spanish dominance.
The 2026 World Cup final in New York now looms. Spain will face either Brazil or Argentina. Their “anaconda grip” system, which has conceded only two goals in six tournament matches, makes them heavy favorites. A victory would give Spain their second World Cup title, following 2010.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Who won the World Cup 2026 semifinal between France and Spain?
- A: Spain won the 2026 World Cup semifinal 2-1 against France at MetLife Stadium on July 14, advancing to the final in New York.
- Q: What is Spain’s ‘anaconda grip’ strategy in the 2026 World Cup?
- A: Spain’s ‘anaconda grip’ strategy, as described by Reuters, involves high pressing, relentless possession, and a stifling defense that chokes opponents, neutralizing stars like Kylian Mbappe.
- Q: What did Lamine Yamal say after the semifinal win?
- A: 18-year-old winger Lamine Yamal warned, ‘New York, we’re coming for you,’ reflecting Spain’s confidence after his two-assist, five-chance-created performance in the semifinal.
Extended Reading
Reuters’ match report, “Spain choke life out of France to reach World Cup final,” provides detailed tactical analysis. FOX Sports’ full highlights video (4:17) captures all key moments from the semifinal at MetLife Stadium.