Spain and goalkeeper Unai Simón post another shutout to reach the World Cup final
Spain defeated France 2-0 in the World Cup semifinals, led by a strong defensive performance and goalkeeper Unai Simón. The victory secures Spain's spot in the final, marking their first appearance in the championship match in 16 years.
Why it matters
This match highlights a significant shift in international football dominance as Spain advances to the final of an expanded 48-team tournament.
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon sprinted off his line to beat a charging Kylian Mbappe to the ball with France desperately seeking a goal in the World Cup semifinals. While Simón managed to get there first and head the ball away, he suddenly had the World Cup's co-scoring leader between him and the net with France forward Desire Doue trying to get control of the ball. Even in that rare moment of chaos late in the match, the structured Spanish defense and the standout keeper again didn't allow a goal. Spain ended up beating France 2-0 on Tuesday to advance to the World Cup final, 16 years after winning the title the only other time the team made it that far at the tournament. It was the record sixth shutout for Spain at this year's expanded 48-team World Cup.
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