New Delhi: French President Emmanuel Macron expressed disappointment after France’s 2-0 defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal but voiced confidence in the future of the national team, describing the squad as “young and full of promise.”
In a message shared after the match, Macron congratulated Spain on reaching the World Cup final while thanking the French players for representing the country with commitment throughout the tournament. Although acknowledging the pain of the defeat, he said the team’s youthful talent offers plenty of reasons for optimism in the years ahead.
Spain produced a composed and clinical performance to secure their place in the final. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the box. Pedro Porro doubled the advantage with a well taken finish after being played through by Dani Olmo, sealing a deserved victory for La Roja.
Porro’s outstanding display earned him the Player of the Match award as Spain combined disciplined defending with efficient finishing to overcome a French side that had entered the contest as slight favourites.
France created early opportunities through Kylian Mbappe but struggled to break down Spain’s organised defence. Goalkeeper Unai Simon made several important saves, while Marc Cucurella produced a crucial challenge to deny Mbappe during one of France’s best attacking moves. Despite second half substitutions aimed at changing the game, France were unable to find a way back.
The victory sends Spain into the FIFA World Cup final, where they will face either England or Argentina. Spain will be aiming to win their second World Cup title after their historic triumph in 2010.
Oyarzabal also reached a personal milestone by scoring his 30th international goal, becoming only the sixth Spanish player to achieve that feat.
France’s World Cup campaign is not yet over, with Les Bleus set to compete in the third place playoff on Saturday as they look to finish the tournament on a positive note.
