Spain ease past France to reach FIFA World Cup final

By Maxwell Kumoye

European champions Spain produced a composed and clinical performance to defeat France 2-0 on Tuesday, securing their place in the FIFA World Cup final.

Spain took the lead in the 22nd minute when Mikel Oyarzabal calmly converted a penalty after Lucas Digne brought down the lively Lamine Yamal inside the penalty area.

Following an evenly contested opening, Spain gradually took complete control of the match with their trademark possession-based football, dictating the tempo and limiting France's attacking opportunities.

The advantage was doubled in the 58th minute as Pedro Porro finished brilliantly after exchanging passes with Dani Olmo, beating French goalkeeper Mike Maignan to effectively put the contest beyond France.

The victory sends Spain into their second World Cup final since lifting their maiden title in 2010.

They will now chase a second world crown when they face either England or Argentina in Sunday's final at the New York/New Jersey Stadium.

France struggled to break down Spain's disciplined defence, while the Spaniards remained in control for much of the contest to book their place in the tournament's showpiece match.

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