Dani Olmo
Barcelona · UEFA Nations League · Midfielder · #20 · Spain · 27 yrs
Dani Olmo news
Spain boss De la Fuente condemns World Cup final brawl with Argentina as ‘intolerable’ and ‘inadmissible’
Spain boss Luis de la Fuente gave his take on the postgame brawl between his players and Argentina following the 2026 World Cup final, describing the situation as "intolerable" and "inadmissible." The 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina ended in heavy controversy, with players from both sides sparking a wild postgame melee following the final whistle. Addressing the chaotic scene, Spanish head coach Luis de la Fuente offered a sharp rebuke, calling the altercations “intolerable” and “inadmissible.” As referee Slavko Vincic blew his whistle to finalize Spain‘s 1-0 extra-time victory, a late shove from Nahuel Molina into Rodri’s midsection ignited a heated confrontation between the two benches. Midfielder Leandro Paredes emerged as a central figure in the melee after physical clashes with both Eric García and Gavi, while Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also captured on video shoving Spanish midfielder Dani Olmo. Speaking to TVE after reviewing footage of the brawl, De la Fuente offered a candid assessment of the altercations: “It is intolerable, inadmissible, and cannot be allowed. We must highlight our behavior in the face of aggressions and provocations. Believe me, at the time of those events I didn’t realize it because I was celebrating with other people, hugging colleagues. I didn’t notice.“ The Spanish manager maintained his respect for the opposition while firmly condemning their postgame behavior. “But of course, in any case, that is intolerable, inadmissible, and cannot be allowed. Players of that caliber, whom I have praised every day prior and continue to do so because they are great footballers. They have a magnificent manager who I’m sure felt just as bad as we did upon seeing those reactions. That, I insist, is not tolerable,” he added. Leandro Paredes #5 of Argentina and Eric Garcia #4 of Spain have words after the World Cup 2026 Final. De la Fuente concluded by praising his own squad’s restraint under pressure, crediting his players for preventing the situation from devolving further. “I think we must highlight our behavior in the face of those types of aggressions, of provocations. Our players always maintained proper conduct, the attitude of good sportsmen and great footballers,” he noted. Argentina players await potential FIFA disciplinary action FIFA has since issued an official statement confirming that its Disciplinary Committee has opened an investigation into potential breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code regarding the postgame altercations. At present, world soccer’s governing body has yet to announce formal suspensions or financial penalties for any of the Argentina players or coaching staff involved. With the next FIFA international window scheduled for September, officials have a two-month runway to hand down individual or team-wide disciplinary measures.
Argentina assistant Ayala apologises for striking Olmo after World Cup final
Argentina assistant Roberto Ayala appeared to hit Spain's Dani Olmo following the World Cup final, but he insists it was unintentional. The post Argentina assistant Ayala apologises for striking Olmo after World Cup final appeared first on SoccerNews.
Gavi breaks silence on Leandro Paredes after post-final brawl at the 2026 World Cup
Following the brief altercation between Gavi and Leandro Paredes after the 2026 World Cup final, the Spaniard addressed the possible suspension facing the Argentine player. The chaotic scenes that followed Spain’s 1-0 extra-time win over Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final quickly became one of the tournament’s biggest talking points, with Leandro Paredes at the center of the controversy after a physical confrontation with several Spain players once the final whistle blew. Amid speculation over whether FIFA would hand Paredes a suspension for his role in the incident, Gavi, one of the players directly involved in the clash, decided to speak out. The Barcelona midfielder made clear he doesn’t believe punishment is the right outcome, despite having been on the receiving end of the confrontation himself. “I’ll tell you the truth, I don’t think they should be suspended. I understand it’s not a good image for kids, but I think there’s also that part of football that’s a bit more physical. At the end of the day, it’s all football, and it should always stay that way, just football,” Gavi said, via Zona Mixta on X (formerly Twitter). What happened with Paredes The confrontation broke out immediately after the final whistle at MetLife Stadium, as Spain’s substitutes rushed onto the field to celebrate. Cameras caught Paredes grabbing Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat during the chaos, before becoming involved in a separate altercation with Gavi moments later, throwing the 21-year-old to the ground. SE ENOJÓ LEANDRO: Paredes golpeó a Éric García y a Gavi mientras festejaban muy cerca de él.⚽ #ESPNMundial📺 Mirá los mejores partidos de la #FIFAWorldCup por ESPN, en el Plan Premium de #DisneyPlus pic.twitter.com/Ylhqavw0CF— SportsCenter (@SC_ESPN) July 19, 2026 Initial reports indicated that referee Slavko Vincic had shown Paredes a red card for his conduct, but FIFA later clarified that no such card was ever issued. The situation isn’t fully closed, though, as FIFA has since opened a disciplinary investigation into Argentina’s conduct following the final. This probe could still result in sanctions against Paredes or other members of the delegation, including Nahuel Molina and assistant coach Roberto Ayala, both of whom were also involved in separate incidents during the post-match chaos. Roberto Ayala apologizes for punching Dani Olmo Argentina’s assistant coach was also caught up in the post-final chaos, throwing a punch at Spain midfielder Dani Olmo. Days later, Ayala addressed the incident in an interview with Esports Migdia on Valencia Capital Radio, expressing regret and saying he intends to apologize to Olmo in person. “Obviously I’m sorry. Given the position I hold, I can’t allow a feeling, or whatever I might get from the other side, to change my mood and my actions. I’m sorry, for me these are things that stay in the moment and that’s it,” Ayala said. He also pushed back on how the incident had been described, insisting it wasn’t as severe as reported. “For me, you have to cut things off and leave it there. It was more of a shove than anything else, it wasn’t a punch like people are saying, and it ended there. It was a reaction to something that was said, but that’s it, if I see him I’ll obviously apologize in person,” he explained. Ayala closed by taking ownership of his actions, while explaining his intentions in the moment. “My intention was to go in and separate them, but sometimes you run into things that happen with your adrenaline through the roof. That’s no excuse, though, and given the position I hold, my behavior has to be different, no matter what I’m on the receiving end of,” he concluded.
Argentina faces potential sanctions as FIFA opens disciplinary review into World Cup final clash with Spain
Following the incidents in the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain players, FIFA has opened a disciplinary review with players from the Albiceleste facing potential sanctions. The 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium ended with Spain claiming its second world title following a narrow 1-0 extra-time victory, but the celebration was overshadowed by a chaotic postgame melee. Now, several Argentina players and staff members face potential sanctions after FIFA launched a formal disciplinary review into the altercations following the final whistle. As referee Slavko Vincic blew the final whistle on Ferran Torres’ decisive extra-time winner, Spain’s squad erupted in joy while Argentina’s players stood in disbelief. However, emotions quickly boiled over, and several frustrated Argentine players engaged in physical confrontations with their Spanish counterparts on the pitch. Midfielder Leandro Paredes was among the central figures in the chaos, spotted grabbing Spanish defender Eric García by the neck before being pulled away by head coach Lionel Scaloni. Moments later, Paredes grabbed Gavi by the front of his jersey and shoved the Barcelona midfielder to the turf. The initial spark occurred when Spain’s substitutes stormed the pitch to celebrate, prompting Argentina fullback Nahuel Molina to jab a celebrating Rodri in the midsection. The Manchester City midfielder immediately confronted Molina, igniting a larger skirmish that brought in players from both sidelines, including García and Paredes. Tensions flared after Spain beat Argentina in the FIFA World Cup Final pic.twitter.com/WRLlMWGF6W— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 19, 2026 Meanwhile, Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also captured on camera striking Spanish midfielder Dani Olmo during the fray. While early reports suggested Paredes received a post-match red card, FIFA’s official match report did not log an ejection or reference the incident immediately following the game. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala hit Dani Olmo in the face out of nowhere 🤮What a disgusting behaviour. Olmo is 28 while he's 53! pic.twitter.com/lPURafP9NI— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes) July 20, 2026 FIFA’s official statement The day after the incident, FIFA issued a statement confirming its investigation: “Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with article 36 of the FIFA disciplinary code (FDC), the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents. “Further details will be communicated by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the prosecutor’s report has been completed,” the statement concluded. Under Subsection 1 of Article 36, the secretariat may appoint a prosecutor to conduct necessary inquiries into alleged breaches of governing regulations. Depending on the investigation’s findings, the individuals involved could face suspensions, financial penalties, or both. While FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee assesses the severity of the violations, Argentina’s players declined to comment on the matter, bypassing the stadium’s mixed zone and heading straight to the team bus through a side exit.
Report: New date emerges for Argentina vs Spain Finalissima after 2026 World Cup final
resh reports have sparked excitement over the Finalissima, and supporters are now eagerly waiting to discover when the intercontinental showdown could finally take place after months of uncertainty. World Cup winner Spain and runner-up Argentina may have settled soccer’s biggest prize on the grandest stage, but another blockbuster meeting could already be on the horizon. Fresh reports have sparked excitement over the Finalissima, and supporters are now eagerly waiting to discover when the intercontinental showdown could finally take place after months of uncertainty. The Finalissima had originally been expected to bring together the champions of Europe and South America before the World Cup, but circumstances prevented the match from happening. Now, following Spain’s triumph over Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, a new report suggests the fixture may finally be back on the calendar. The Finalissima is a match contested between the reigning UEFA European champion and the CONMEBOL Copa America champion. Although it has existed in different forms throughout soccer history, the competition returned under its current name in 2022, when Argentina defeated Italy 3-0 at Wembley Stadium. The second edition was originally scheduled to feature Spain and Argentina, but it never took place. Instead, soccer fans watched those same two national teams meet in the World Cup final, where Ferran Torres scored the extra-time winner to secure La Roja’s second World Cup title. Why the original match never happened Before the World Cup, the Finalissima had been scheduled for March 2026 at Lusail Stadium, the venue that famously hosted the 2022 World Cup final. However, the fixture was ultimately cancelled after growing security concerns in the Middle East complicated travel and event planning. Reports indicated that ongoing regional political tensions made hosting the match increasingly difficult, forcing organizers to reconsider their plans. Several alternative venues were reportedly explored, including the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid, while another proposal suggested playing home-and-away matches in Spain and Argentina. Those options never received unanimous approval, and the match was eventually abandoned. Report reveals new possible date According to ESPN Argentina journalist Martin Arevalo, the long-awaited Finalissima may now be staged later this year. The report claims the Finalissima could be played in November 2026 at Lusail Stadium in Qatar, with the Qatari government reportedly having already acquired the rights to host the match. Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain is congratulated by Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina If confirmed, it would finally deliver the clash that supporters have anticipated since both national teams captured their respective continental championships. While UEFA and CONMEBOL have yet to officially confirm the fixture, the report has already generated enormous interest. What’s more, Lusail Stadium would once again become the stage for another major international final. The venue has already established itself as one of world soccer’s most iconic stadiums after hosting the dramatic 2022 World Cup final. Qatar has continued investing heavily in international sporting events, and staging the Finalissima would further strengthen its reputation as a global soccer destination. The World Cup final added even more intrigue Fate ultimately produced an even bigger occasion, with Spain and Argentina facing one another in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final instead of the Finalissima. Mientras Scaloni intentaba poner paz al término del encuentro, Roberto Ayala, a sus 53 años, no tuvo otra cosa que hacer que tirarle un puñetazo a Dani Olmo. Otro comportamiento lamentable junto al de Paredes: pic.twitter.com/GReqOKICa6— BeSoccer (@besoccer_ES) July 20, 2026 Spain deserved its victory after controlling much of the contest and limiting Argentina to very few attacking opportunities. Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minut
Spain star Dani Olmo criticizes Argentina after 2026 World Cup win: ‘It’s important the values that you want to convey’
Spain defeated Argentina to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup title, thanks to Ferran Torres' last-gasp winner. After the match, Dani Olmo strongly criticized his opponents, emphasizing that values are what matter most. After establishing as the most consistent team, Spain defeated Argentina to become the 2026 FIFA World Cup winners. Showing clear superiority throughout the match, they prevented their opponents from registering a single shot on target over 120 minutes. After the game, Dani Olmo delivered a strong criticism of Lionel Scaloni’s team, putting the values that should be displayed on the pitch at the center of the discussion. At the end of the match, Leandro Paredes was involved in a fight with Gavi and more Spain players. Following this, he received a straight red card and faces a possible suspension, as it was such a direct act of aggression. Alongside him, Nicolás Otamendi was involved in a tense exchange of words with Rodri Hernández, reproaching him for his statements during the week. Following this, Dani Olmo decided to make a very direct criticism. “We don’t care that they didn’t look at us during the medal ceremony. In the end, I think what matters is the values you want to convey to the outside world. We are role models for many generations, for many boys and girls, and I think they should also set an example in every way, and for the better,” Dani Olmo said in the post-game interview. Unlike Argentina, Spain relied on a collective style of play, based on long possession and high pressing. Demonstrating their superiority on the pitch, they did not usually make aggressive tackles, relying instead on showing it with the ball. This was even reflected in the match, as Enzo Fernández was sent off toward the end of the second half after a strong challenge on the opponent, something that was heavily criticized by the Spanish players. Leandro Paredes #5 of Argentina and Eric Garcia #4 of Spain fight on field. Leandro Paredes could face a severe sanction by FIFA After the final whistle from referee Slavko Vinčić, Leandro Paredes was involved in a major fight with Eric García and Pablo Gavi. Following this, the 32-year-old midfielder received a straight red card. However, FIFA could impose a significant suspension if it officially opens disciplinary proceedings. For this, the referee’s match report will be crucial, as it could determine the situation. According to the FIFA Disciplinary Code: “Players and officials shall be suspended as specified below, and may also be fined accordingly… (i) at least three matches or an appropriate period for assaulting (including elbowing, punching, kicking or biting; spitting at or striking) an opponent or any other person other than a match official.” Leandro Paredes could face a suspension of more than three matches if FIFA considers it a serious act of aggression against two direct opponents. In addition, this could also be extended to Ramón Ayala, Lionel Scaloni’s assistant coach, and even Nahuel Molina. Therefore, Dani Olmo’s comments appear to be based on real events; rather than being simple criticism, they are a reflection on aggressive play.
Man United legend in awe of Lamine, Cubarsi after World Cup win: ‘The future is bright for Spanish Football’
Spain lifted only their second FIFA World Cup title in history last night with a late 1-0 win over Argentina in the final.Barcelona’s stars including Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, Dani Olmo, Pedri, Eri...
Arsenal's World Cup winning trio
Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi and David Raya are now Premier League winners and champions of the world having won the 2026 World Cup with Spain. Arsenal's super-sub Merino came on for Dani Olmo in the 75th minute as Spain looked to break the deadlock against a very well-organised Argentina.
Patience beats overreliance on Messi: how the final was won and lost
Argentina tried to kill the spectacle and make it a physical battle but Spain refused to take the bait and kept passingA worrying thought as a tepid first half drew to a close: was the half-time show going to be better than the football? This was a slog. Argentina could not match Spain’s possession approach but they had ways to level the playing field. There was physicality from Lionel Scaloni’s side, whose aim was to kill the spectacle before taking control in the second half, and they were allowed to take it to the limit by the Slovenian referee, Slavko Vincic. Alexis Mac Allister could have been booked for an early foul on Dani Olmo and the leniency, together with a pitch not conducive to playing flowing football, allowed Argentina to disrupt Spain’s passing game, creating the conditions for one of the most tedious World Cup finals. Continue reading...
Why isn’t Gavi starting for Spain against Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final?
Spain face Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final, where Gavi will begin the match on the bench. Spain face Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final, and Luis de la Fuente is once again turning to the same approach that has carried his team through the whole tournament, leaving Gavi once again out of the starting team. De la Fuente has continued to lean on Fabian Ruiz and Rodri as his midfield pairing, a combination that has provided balance and control during Spain‘s last two victories against Belgium and France. Further up the pitch, the front line remains built around Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Alex Baena, operating just behind Mikel Oyarzabal. It’s the same setup Spain used to eliminate France in the semifinals, and De la Fuente is trusting it once more against Argentina in the tournament’s last game. The consistency in selection has left little room for Gavi to force his way back into the starting lineup. Despite being one of the most talented midfielders in the squad, the Barcelona player has found himself on the outside looking in as Spain’s rotation has settled around a formula that keeps winning. Gavi in action during Spain’s game vs Cape Verde. (Getty Images) Gavi’s limited role throughout the 2026 World Cup Gavi’s only start of the tournament came in the opener against Cabo Verde, a match Spain failed to win as they were held to a 0-0 draw despite dominating possession and chances. It was widely regarded as the team’s worst performance of the campaign, as it’s the only match they failed to win in the tournament, and Gavi hasn’t started a game since. His involvement from that point on has been almost nonexistent. The midfielder’s only other appearance came as a substitute in the 3-0 win over Austria in the Round of 32, when he was given just five minutes on the pitch. Beyond that cameo, Gavi has not featured again, watching the rest of Spain’s run to the final from the bench.
Why isn’t Leandro Paredes starting for Argentina against Spain in the 2026 World Cup?
With Leandro Paredes surprisingly beginning the 2026 World Cup final on the bench, Argentina enters its showdown with Spain carrying one of the biggest pre-match talking points of the tournament. With Leandro Paredes surprisingly beginning the 2026 World Cup final on the bench, Argentina enters its showdown with Spain carrying one of the biggest pre-match talking points of the tournament. Supporters immediately began wondering why one of Lionel Scaloni’s trusted midfielders was left out of the starting lineup. The defending world champion arrived at MetLife Stadium with several adjustments to the lineup that defeated England in the semifinals. Lionel Scaloni introduced three changes, with Nicolas Gonzalez replacing Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo De Paul returning to the starting lineup, and Gonzalo Montiel coming in at right back instead of Nahuel Molina. The decision is purely tactical rather than injury-related. There have been no reports of injury, suspension, or disciplinary issues, and Paredes remains fully available as a substitute. Instead, Scaloni appears to have tailored his lineup specifically for Spain’s style of play. The coaching staff opted for greater mobility, pressing ability, and attacking energy, believing those qualities would better match the European champion’s possession-based approach. With Spain expected to dominate long stretches of possession through players such as Rodri, Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal, Argentina has prioritized midfielders capable of covering wider areas while quickly transitioning into attack.
Why isn’t Pedri starting for Spain against Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final?
Spain face Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final, and Pedri will begin the match on the bench. Spain are one win away from their second World Cup title as they face Argentina, and Luis de la Fuente is sticking with the same midfield blueprint that carried the team past France in the semifinals, meaning Pedri will once again begin the game on the bench. De la Fuente has settled on Fabian Ruiz alongside Rodri in a double pivot, a pairing that has given Spain more control and physical presence through the middle of the park in the tournament’s biggest matches. Ahead of that duo, De la Fuente has built his attack around Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Alex Baena operating behind Mikel Oyarzabal, who leads the team in scoring with five goals. The setup underlines just how deep De la Fuente’s midfield options have become. Even a player of Pedri‘s caliber, one the coach has repeatedly praised as among the best in the world, cannot force his way back into a starting role that has been working for Spain when it matters most. Pedri during Spain’s game vs Portugal. (Getty Images) How Pedri’s role faded as the tournament progressed Pedri was a fixture in Spain’s starting lineup for the first five matches of the World Cup, anchoring the midfield through the group stage and into the knockout rounds. That run included the Round of 16 win over Portugal, a game Spain needed a stoppage-time Mikel Merino goal to escape after struggling to create clear chances, with Pedri’s performance among those that failed to stand out. That flat display opened the door for Fabian Ruiz, who took his opportunity in the quarterfinal against Belgium, scoring the opener in a 2-1 win that sent Spain into the semifinals. Ruiz kept his place for the last four against France, starting once again as Spain booked their spot in the final, and Pedri has yet to reclaim the role he held for most of the tournament.
Dani Olmo reacts to facing childhood idol Lionel Messi in World Cup final: ‘Playing against him gives you extra motivation’
Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo insists Spain have every reason to believe they can beat Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, stressing that the squad’s confidence has been built on performanc...
In this star-powered World Cup, Spain show value of collective and control | Sid Lowe
Luis de la Fuente’s final-bound team have been fuelled by togetherness and a commitment to each other that goes back a long wayOn the way out of the dressing room in Arlington, Luis de la Fuente gathered his “family” and delivered one last message before the World Cup semi-final against France. He had long known what he was going to say, if not exactly how – it’s what he has been saying for 50 days and more. “I’ll tell them that this is a unique stage, the kind of moment that may never be repeated again, and that we have to be ourselves,” he had suggested 18 hours earlier; now that idea crystallised in a line. “We’re facing one of the best lineups in the world,” the Spain coach told them, “but we’re the best team in the world.”By the time they made their way back in again, a voice was heard above the shouts, another line to encapsulate it all, to define this. It belonged to Marc Cucurella and it said: “What a fucking recital!” A call came in to De la Fuente, King Felipe on the phone saying pretty much the same thing, if a little more politely. On went the music, Jamaican (Bam Bam) blasting out, pizza was passed around, and they bounced about. Some did, anyway. Some just sat there taking in what they had done. “It was written: we started in Atlanta and we end in New York,” Dani Olmo said, but a semi-final is not supposed to be like this. Continue reading...
Pedro Porro turns from defender to destroyer as Spain outwit France once more | Sid Lowe
The full-back was supposed to be busy shackling France’s vaunted front line but found time to score the killer goal at the other end“Let me loose in a prison and I’ll end up owning the place,” Pedro Porro once said. Let him loose in the penalty area and that will belong to him too. The whole world might: to him and the entire gang. When the Spain right-back burst into the box like a jail break, sprinting on to Dani Olmo’s superb layoff, and steadied himself to guide the ball into the net and score the second goal in Dallas, there was still half an hour to go in this semi-final, but it was done. They knew it was. Somehow, it was like they always had.Porro kissed the badge and raced to the corner, his teammates streaming across the pitch and off the bench towards him. He was there to protect them from Kylian Mbappé, the tournament’s top scorer and one member of that terrifying French forward line, projected as if they were the four horsemen of the apocalypse: the toughest, most fearful men in the joint. Or so it goes. Yet he won’t back down, never has, and when it came to the decisive blow, he was the one who delivered it. Instinct had taken over, if only for an instant. And what an instant it was, guaranteeing Spain would go to the World Cup final. Continue reading...
Luis de la Fuente makes bold Spain claim after beating France: ‘They were up against the best team in the world’
Spain secured their place in the 2026 World Cup final after defeating France, and Luis de la Fuente had nothing but praise for his team. Luis de la Fuente didn’t hold back after Spain‘s 2-0 win over France sent them into the 2026 World Cup final, delivering a bold assessment of his side’s level in the aftermath of Tuesday’s semifinal at Dallas Stadium. “It’s hard to describe what you feel right now. The pride of managing a group of professionals like this one. We have one more step to go, and we’re going to try to get there,” de la Fuente said in his on-field interview after the game. The Spain coach went on to reflect on the weight of the occasion and the philosophy that has carried his side through the tournament unbeaten. “There’s a lot of built-up tension right now, it’s a huge responsibility being in a World Cup final. We’ve stayed true to this idea, and it’s brought us here. I’m proud of that,” he continued. De la Fuente saved his strongest words for his own players, framing the win over France as proof of just how far this Spain side has come. “We were facing one of the best national teams in the world, but they were up against the best team in the world. These players deserve everything. Their generosity, their talent. It’s a spectacle. Proud, happy,” the Spanish coach concluded. Mikel Oyarzabal #21 of Spain converts a penalty vs France. (Getty Images) Pedro Porro’s night to remember Pedro Porro was one of the standout performers in Spain’s win over France, doubling the lead with a well-taken second goal that put the match out of reach and sent his team to the final. Porro’s goal came in the 58th minute, the product of a slick give-and-go with Dani Olmo through the middle of France’s defense. The 26-year-old defender played it in, received the return pass in stride, and beat Mike Maignan with a low finish to make it 2-0. PEDRO POROOOO 🔥2-0 SPAIN IN THE SEMIFINALS! pic.twitter.com/FxMiGlJE92— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) July 14, 2026 “It’s a dream come true. Very happy with the team’s attitude, from start to finish. We played a great match. This belongs to the team — congratulations to everyone, because we put on a huge performance,” the Tottenham defender said after the game. Asked about his fitness for the final, Porro admitted the physical toll of the tournament is starting to show. “We’ll see (about being ready for the final). I’d say I’m exhausted right now. Now it’s about recovery,” he added.
Spain beat France 2-0 to reach the World Cup final
Spain beat France with goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro to reach the World Cup final with a 2-0 victory. A huge match was expected in the 2026 World Cup semifinals, and France and Spain delivered as they battled for a place in the final, with Spain finishing with a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro. The first half had few goal-scoring chances, but Spain took the lead through a penalty after Lamine Yamal was brought down by Lucas Digne while trying to reach the ball. Oyarzabal stepped up and fired a powerful shot to the left side of Mike Maignan, who went the right way but could not stop it. Spain’s superior ball control became even more evident in the second half, with France unable to react. After a great combination between Porro and Dani Olmo, Porro went one-on-one against the goalkeeper and finished with precision to secure the victory.