France captain Kylian Mbappé has acknowledged that Les Bleus failed to produce the level of performance required to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final, following their 2–0 semi-final defeat to Spain on Tuesday.
Widely regarded as favorites heading into the encounter, France were outplayed by a highly organized and technically superior Spanish side that controlled proceedings from start to finish.
Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro sealed Spain’s victory and secured their place in the World Cup final, moving them a step closer to winning the tournament for the first time since their triumph in South Africa in 2010.
Spain dominated possession and dictated the tempo throughout the match, limiting France to just two shots on target. Having scored 16 goals en route to the semi-finals, France found themselves effectively neutralized by a disciplined Spanish defense.
Reflecting on the defeat, Mbappé admitted that France failed to meet the standards expected at such a critical stage of the competition.
“We did not produce the performance we wanted, tactically, technically, or in terms of our overall level,” Mbappé said.
“When you fail to do what is required in a World Cup semi-final, you do not win.
“Spain remained faithful to their game plan and identity. There was a lack of communication in our pressing, and even when we regained possession, our first touches and passing were not at the level expected in a World Cup semi-final.”
France head coach Didier Deschamps echoed his captain’s sentiments, conceding that Spain were the better team on the night.
“The players are devastated, but we have to be honest with ourselves. Technically, Spain were superior, and that made the difference. We were second best,” Deschamps said.
For Spain, the victory represented another milestone in an impressive tournament campaign. Goalscorer Pedro Porro described reaching the World Cup final as a moment he had never imagined.
“It is a dream come true, honestly. Even in my wildest dreams, I never imagined something like this,” Porro said.
“We executed our game plan perfectly against a team that had enjoyed an outstanding World Cup. The entire team deserves credit for the performance.”
