It is advantage Spain in the first 2026 World Cup semi-final after Mikel Oyarzabal converted a first-half penalty to put the European champions ahead against France.
In a tight battle between the two global powerhouses, La Roja take the advantage into half-time.
Despite some early half chances for Kylian Mbappe and Bradley Barcola, Les Bleus fell behind for the first time at this summer’s tournament.
Just before the first hydration break of the night, Aston Villa full-back Lucas Digne was unaware of his surroundings in the France penalty area, wildly swinging a foot at a looping ball in an attempt to clear it from danger.
What he did not see was Lamine Yamal streaking towards him and getting to the ball before Digne.
As a result, the Frenchman’s foot connected with the Barcelona winger, who went tumbling to the ground, and prompting the referee to award a penalty.
It was Oyarzabal who stepped up, converted, and maintained his 100% conversion record for his country.
Spain head into half-time with the lead, and have been the better team in Texas.
The 2022 and 2018 finalists now have work to do if they are to get themselves back into the game.
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