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France’s dream of lifting the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy came to an end after a 2-0 semifinal defeat to Spain on Tuesday (July 14). Following the heartbreaking loss, French President Emmanuel Macron shared an emotional message on social media, congratulating Spain while expressing pride in the French team’s fighting spirit and optimism for its future.
Taking to X shortly after the final whistle, Macron praised Spain for reaching the final and thanked the French players for representing the nation with determination. “Bravo to Spain for this qualification. Thank you to the Bleus for carrying our colours with commitment. Tonight’s defeat is hard to take, but this team is young and full of promise,” he wrote, a post that quickly gained traction across social media.
France entered the semifinal in impressive form, having won all six of their previous matches in the tournament. However, Didier Deschamps’ side failed to overcome a disciplined Spanish team that remained solid in defence and clinical in attack throughout the contest.
Spain broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute after Lucas Digne brought down Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area. Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted the spot-kick to register his fifth goal of the tournament, giving La Roja a deserved lead.
Despite boasting an attacking lineup featuring Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise, France struggled to create clear-cut opportunities. Spain doubled their advantage in the 58th minute through Pedro Porro, leaving Les Bleus with a mountain to climb. France were unable to mount a comeback as Spain comfortably saw out the match to book their place in the FIFA World Cup final.
The victory sends Spain into only the second FIFA World Cup final in the nation’s history. The 2010 world champions will now face the winner of the second semifinal between England and defending champions Argentina at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19 (July 20 IST), with both teams aiming to secure a place in football’s biggest showdown.