Spain books a spot in the World Cup final with a comprehensive victory over France
Spain defeated France in the World Cup semifinal with a 2-0 victory, securing their place in the final. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro ensured a dominant performance against a struggling French side.
Why it matters
Highlights a major upset in a global sporting event, impacting the trajectory of the World Cup tournament.
Link Copied! Spain teaches France a lesson to reach World Cup final By Ben Church Spanish players celebrate their victory. Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images The semifinal that everyone predicted did not go the way than anyone expected.
Most people, even Spain fans, thought France would dominate. If La Roja was to win, it would be from another late-goal or a mistake from the otherwise imperious French defense.
The reality, though, was so very different.
Spain started the match well and took charge of the ball, keeping possession but not exactly bothering the French goalkeeper much.
Then, as the clock ticked past 20 minutes, Lamine Yamal’s effort was rewarded with a penalty to his team. The youngster quickly pressed France defender Lucas Digne, who was totally unaware of Yamal’s presence until it was too late.
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