France's run in the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended in the semifinals with a 2-1 defeat to Spain on July 14, 2026. The match, held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, saw Spain dominate possession and create higher-quality chances, as reflected in the expected goals (xG) statistic: Spain had 1.8 xG compared to France's 0.3, according to Opta.
Key individual performances highlighted France's struggles. Kylian Mbappé, often France's talisman, lost 9 of his 14 duels and failed to register a shot on target. Michael Olise, starting on the right wing, lost possession 20 times, the most of any French player. The team's defensive organization also faltered, with Spain's Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams exploiting spaces behind the full-backs.
Spain took the lead in the 21st minute through a Rodri penalty after a handball by Jules Koundé. France equalized just before halftime via a Randal Kolo Muani header from a corner. However, Spain regained the lead in the 67th minute when Yamal set up Dani Olmo for a close-range finish. France pushed for an equalizer but managed only one shot on target in the second half.
This defeat ended France's streak of reaching consecutive World Cup finals (2018, 2022). Spain advanced to face Argentina in the final on July 18. France will play in the third-place match against Portugal on July 17.
