Rodri helps Spain reach World Cup final with victory over France | OneFootball

Rodri played the full 90 minutes as Spain reached the 2026 World Cup final after a 2-0 win over France.

But Les Bleus’ elimination meant Rayan Cherki’s tournament also came to an end with City’s skilful forward entering the semi-final tie in the 72nd minute.

Dallas played host to the eagerly awaited clash, and the opening stages were absent of the nervousness a match of such magnitude could conjure.

Spain were then awarded a penalty midway through the first half when Lamine Yamal was brought down inside the area by Lucas Digne.

Mikel Oyarzabal stepped up and slammed the ball into the side netting to give La Roja the lead on 23 minutes.

Spain held their slender advantage into half-time and Luis de la Fuente’s team doubled their advantage soon after the restart when Pedro Porro was slid into the box before he dispatched expertly.

Targeting a first World Cup final appearance since 2010, La Roja thought they had pulled further ahead when Yamal danced inside the box before curling into the top corner – however – his effort was ruled out after the Barcelona man had strayed offside.

During the match’s second hydration break, Cherki was introduced with France looking for a route back into the last-four tie.

However, Spain’s defence stood strong with Rodri playing an instrumental role in holding midfield as De la Fuente’s team secured passage into the final.

La Roja will now contest the showpiece on Sunday 19 July at 20:00 (UK) against the winner of England and Argentina in the World Cup’s second semi-final.