Global press hails Spain after 2-0 World Cup semi-final as France savaged for tame display | OneFootball

Spain’s 2-0 World Cup semi-final defeat of France in Dallas on Tuesday drew rapturous global coverage, with Les Bleus castigated for a flat display. L'Équipe notes widespread praise for La Roja and doubts over France’s star power.

In Spain, As hailed a grand display and El País said France were left stunned. Sport and Mundo Deportivo called Luis de la Fuente’s side immense as France’s vaunted attack fizzled. Marca deemed it unforgettable, even likening it to museum art.

In Italy, La Gazzetta dello Sport saw Spain magnificent and superior across the pitch, saying the game felt one sided throughout. It judged this France mediocre and colourless by recent World Cup standards. Tutto Sport headlined blue tears as Spain stifled their forwards.

In England, The Times framed it as a masterclass in control, with one exceptional team sparkling and the other not. The Daily Mail contrasted Spain’s collective with France’s struggle, arguing a glittering front four counts for little without supply, Mbappé included.

Der Spiegel highlighted France’s total harmlessness, saying individuals were eclipsed by Spain’s structure. Bild turned on the subdued Dallas atmosphere, calling it unworthy of a World Cup semi-final.

After Didier Deschamps questioned whether Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton was suited to a semi-final, El Diario de Hoy defended him as impervious to protests, while pointing to one miss, a yellow card not shown to Michael Olise for a crude foul on Rodri.

Source: L'Équipe