World Cup 2026: A team blowing away individuals – Spain masterclass flattens France
Spain produced a masterclass in control to secure their place in their second World Cup final; It left the rest of the world stunned at how stunned France was.
Les Bleus head into Tuesday’s highly anticipated semi-final with overwhelming favorites including Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise dominating throughout the tournament, making them an attacking force to be feared.
But while many questioned how France could be beaten, Spain reminded everyone why they are European champions and unbeaten in a record-breaking 37 matches, running out 2-0 winners.
Luis de la Fuente’s men have been overlooked this World Cup – even failing to beat Cape Verde for the first time in their opening match – with young superstar Lamine Yamal scoring just one goal.
But they appear to have hit peak form at the right time and, having kept a clean sheet in six of their seven games, can expect to be favorites to face either Argentina or England in Sunday’s World Cup final.
France, meanwhile, must prepare for the third-place play-off after disappointing with a masterclass in midfield and managing just three tries.
Former Premier League champion Chris Sutton, who attended the match on BBC Radio 5 Live, said: “Spain scalped France, destroyed France.”
“We praised France a lot in this tournament, but they were pushed aside by silky Spain. Mainly Spain outplayed and outplayed this French team.”
Another Premier League champion, Roy Keane, said on ITV: “France were not playing as a team. Bright individuals were not playing as a team.
“Spain was absolutely amazing – an absolute joy to watch.”
When De la Fuente was appointed Spain boss in December 2022, some asked him to ask “Luis de la Who?” he said.
Spain, who won the world title in 2010 under Vicente del Bosque, were used to being managed by high-profile figures and de la Fuente was seen as a low-key federation appointment after a spell in charge of the country’s under-19, under-21 and under-23 teams.
However, the 65-year-old gave a definitive answer to the doubters.
The leader who led Spain to Nations League glory in 2023 and Euro 2024 glory has now led them to the World Cup final.
If England win in Atlanta on Wednesday, they will set up a repeat of the European Championship final from two years ago.
