Maximum gold content! Spain defeats three FIFA top-10 teams in a row, beats France for three consecutive wins, and enters the final setting five major records.

In the first World Cup semifinal held on July 15 Beijing time, Spain beat France 2-0 to become the first team to reach the final. They are only one step away from claiming their second World Cup championship in history.

Spain had a perfect start to the match. In the 20th minute, 19-year-old Yamal earned a penalty, and Oyarzabal scored to put Spain ahead. In the 29th minute, French starting center-back Saliba was forced off due to injury, tilting the balance further in Spain's favor. After the break, Spain extended their lead in the 58th minute when Porro combined with Olmo in a one-two before slotting home a solo goal to seal the victory.

Spain's defense continued its outstanding performance in this tournament, completely shutting down the star-studded front three of Mbappé, Olise, and Dembélé. They have conceded only one goal in seven matches, proving to be an impenetrable fortress.

With this victory, Spain also set a number of records. First, it is only the second time in Spain's history that they have reached a World Cup final, and the first time in 16 years since their last appearance in the title match.

Second, Spain has remained unbeaten in this World Cup with six wins and one draw, setting a new record for the longest unbeaten run in a single World Cup in their history. Along the way, they have successively knocked out three top-10 FIFA-ranked teams: Portugal, Belgium, and France, making their path to the final exceptionally impressive.

Third, over the past 20 years, Spain has been the team that has defeated France the most times. In 11 encounters, they have recorded eight wins, one draw, and only two losses.

Fourth, Spain has now achieved three consecutive wins over France in major tournament semifinals, including the 2024 European Championship, the 2025 UEFA Nations League, and the 2026 World Cup. Fifth, Spain has remained unbeaten in their last eight knockout-stage matches in major international tournaments.

After reaching the final, Spain will await the winner between Argentina and England. If they face England, it will be a rematch of the European Championship final from two years ago. If they meet Argentina, it will be a replay of the "Copa América–Euro Cup" match that was canceled this year.