Spain are 45 minutes away from booking their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after taking a 1-0 lead into the break against France, thanks to a first-half penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal.
The decisive moment arrived in the 22nd minute when France left-back Lucas Digne brought down a Spanish attacker inside the penalty area, prompting the referee to point to the spot.
Oyarzabal stepped up with composure and calmly converted, sending the French goalkeeper the wrong way to put La Roja in front.
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The goal marked a significant moment in the tournament, as it was the first time France had fallen behind in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Spain controlled large spells of the opening half with patient possession and intelligent movement, while France struggled to find their usual attacking rhythm despite the pace and threat of Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé.
The French side now face a crucial second half as they look to overturn the deficit and keep their hopes of reaching the World Cup final alive.
Spain, meanwhile, will aim to protect their slender advantage and move one step closer to lifting football’s biggest prize.
