GUWAHATI: Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup final with a commanding 2-0 victory over France in the semi-final on Tuesday, producing a composed and clinical display to eliminate one of the tournament favourites.
ALSO READ: Veteran Assamese Actress Purabi Sarma Passes Away Following Cardiac Arrest
Facing a French side boasting attacking stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise, Spain controlled possession throughout the match and rarely allowed Les Bleus to settle into their rhythm.
Mikel Oyarzabal gave Spain the lead from the penalty spot in the first half at Arlington, Texas. Pedro Porro doubled the advantage after the break, sealing Spain's place in only their second FIFA World Cup final.
The victory leaves Spain one win away from completing a World Cup-European Championship double and potentially lifting their second World Cup title since their maiden triumph in 2010.
Spain will face the winner of the second semi-final between England and Argentina, scheduled to be played on Wednesday in Atlanta, with the final set for Sunday.
France captain Kylian Mbappe admitted his side failed to deliver on the biggest stage.
"We did not produce the performance we wanted, tactically, technically or in terms of our overall level. When you fail to do what you are supposed to do in a World Cup semi-final, you do not win," Mbappe said after the match.
He credited Spain for sticking to their game plan while pointing to France's poor communication and inability to build attacks effectively.
Spain defender Pedro Porro highlighted ball possession as the key to the team's success.
"One of the key factors that got us into the final was keeping possession of the ball. It's a victory for an incredible team, a group of spectacular players—a victory for all 26 players," he said.
With a balanced squad and an impressive run through the tournament, Spain will now look to crown their campaign by winning the World Cup and ushering in what many see as a new golden era for Spanish football.