Spain’s ‘nameless’ heroes reach World Cup final as Oyarzabal and Porro shine | OneFootball

Spain’s band of unsung names reached their second World Cup final, derailing star-studded France, with Pedro Porro named FIFA’s player of the match and Mikel Oyarzabal striking first.

Pre-match focus centred on Lamine Yamal, with Pedri and Nico Williams again among the substitutes, yet Spain advanced without relying on their marquee flashes. According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, this run has been built on collective clarity rather than headline acts.

Mbappé, Olise, Dembélé, Doué and Saliba were largely kept at arm’s length, and France now head for the third-place play-off. Spain will meet the winner of England against Argentina on Sunday.

Since replacing Luis Enrique in December 2022, La Rioja-born Luis de la Fuente has reached the final in four tournaments, two Nations League, a European Championship and this World Cup, a success rate unmatched in world football. He said he felt pride in leading an exceptional group, called the occasion a huge responsibility, and stressed they had stayed faithful to an idea forged four years ago.

Oyarzabal, who delivered the Euros to Spain two summers ago, embodies this side’s calm. His spot-kick took him to five goals at this World Cup, equalling the Spanish best held by Emilio Butragueño and David Villa, and he has 14 in 15 with Spain this season.

Porro, from Don Benito, called reaching the final a dream and quickly deflected praise, saying the achievement belongs to all 26 players. He later departed injured shortly after the second goal.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo