The European champions Spain were not considered semifinal favorites, but they controlled the course of the match and ultimately defeated the French, who were seen as the main contenders for the world champion title, 2-0.
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This is already the third consecutive semifinal in which Spain has knocked down France: it also happened in the 2024 European Championship (2-1) and the 2025 UEFA Nations League (5-4).
“We feel invincible. They, the French, faced the best team in the world,” L. De la Fuente radiated confidence after the victory. “We have that advantage over our opponents. Our players deserve everything because they show dedication, solidarity, and their talent every day.
It was wonderful to watch them play. Today they put on a real show. What might seem difficult to others seemed easy to them.”
With this victory, Spain extended their unbeaten streak to 37 matches. This is a repeated European record, previously held only by Italy.
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Although the tournament started with difficulty – in the first group stage match Spain failed to beat Cape Verde (0-0) – the European champions now have a six-win streak: victories over Saudi Arabia (4-0), Uruguay (1-0), Austria (3-0), Portugal (1-0), Belgium (2-1), and France.
“We knew we had time to gradually improve our game. Of course, we would have liked to win the first matches as well, but this is a long process. We planned to reach the decisive stage in the best possible form. Now we are in great shape and have reached our peak,” said the Spanish coach.
In the final on Sunday, Spain will face either England or Argentina. It will be either a rematch of the 2024 European Championship final or a clash between the current European and world and South American champions.
“At the moment, we are not choosing between opponents. These are teams with different characteristics. I would be happy if we meet Argentina, coached by my close friend Lionel Scaloni, but I also really like England. We will welcome whichever team we face in the final with open arms,” said L. De la Fuente.
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