France has been eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after losing to Spain in the semi-finals. The defeat ends the defending champions' bid for a third consecutive World Cup title and sends Spain through to the final.
France entered the semi-final as tournament favorites following a series of strong attacking performances throughout the competition. However, Spain, the reigning European champions, dominated the match tactically and strategically. According to France's coach Didier Deschamps, his team was "second best" on the day, conceding that Spain outplayed and outsmarted Les Bleus.
The loss represents a significant upset given France's pre-match status as favorites to win the tournament. Spain's victory seals their passage to the World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the other semi-final.
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