SOCCER: Spain choke the life out of France to reach World Cup final

ARLINGTON, Texas — Spain booked its place in the FIFA World Cup final for the first time since winning the title in 2010 after defeating France 2-0 on Tuesday, with Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro scoring in a dominant semifinal performance.

Spain controlled the match from the opening whistle, applying relentless pressure and maintaining possession to neutralize a French side that had been one of the tournament's most dangerous attacking teams. The European champions dictated the tempo throughout, leaving France with few opportunities to threaten.

The victory puts Spain one win away from capturing a second World Cup title. They will face the winner of Wednesday's semifinal between England and Argentina in Sunday's final.

Playing before a packed crowd in Arlington, Spain quickly established control and forced France onto the defensive. Despite France boasting one of the most potent attacks in international soccer, Les Bleus struggled to create meaningful chances as Spain's organized defense and disciplined midfield limited them to just two shots on target.

Spain broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute after Lamine Yamal was fouled inside the penalty area. Marc Cucurella delivered a cross into the box, and as Lucas Digne attempted to clear the ball, he caught Yamal with his follow-through. The referee immediately awarded a penalty.

Oyarzabal calmly converted from the spot, sending goalkeeper Mike Maignan the wrong way to give Spain a 1-0 lead. It marked the first time France had trailed in the tournament.

France attempted to respond after the scheduled hydration break, but Spain continued to dominate possession and nearly doubled its advantage when Dayot Upamecano made a crucial last-ditch challenge to deny Fabian Ruiz from close range.

Spain's defensive discipline frustrated France's attacking stars throughout the match. Michael Olise was effectively contained by Cucurella, Ousmane Dembele found little room to operate, and captain Kylian Mbappe was unable to produce his usual attacking influence.

The decisive second goal came just before the hour mark when Pedro Porro combined with Dani Olmo before calmly slotting the ball past Maignan to make it 2-0.

France was unable to mount a comeback as Spain comfortably saw out the remainder of the match. At the final whistle, the Spanish players celebrated a commanding victory that moved them within one win of reclaiming the World Cup crown. -Reporting by Ossian Shine, editing by Ed Osmond/Reuters