By the end of the match, Kylian Mbappe, a standout performer in the tournament, expressed his frustration. Already penalized for a challenge on Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon, Mbappe misfired a free-kick over the bar. In crucial moments against Spain, Real Madrid’s Mbappe, the second top World Cup goalscorer, did not prevail. Ousmane Dembele of Paris Saint-Germain, the current Ballon d’Or holder, and Michael Olise of Bayern Munich also failed to make their mark.
Despite France’s star-studded lineup, including PSG’s Desire Doue and Manchester City’s Rayan Cherki, victory eluded them. Questions arose regarding coach Didier Deschamps and his team’s apparent destiny for glory. Cherki remarked that France “lost against ourselves.”
Spain’s triumph was not accidental. Their strategy and execution stood out. Unai Simon faced no critical saves, and Spain managed more possession, passes, and shots. Any reasonable analysis of France’s defeat acknowledges Spain’s exceptional teamwork.
France impressed during the group and early knockout stages, but Spain’s defiance was evident. Lamine Yamal, Spain’s star, emphasized the pressure on France, not his team. At 19, Yamal made significant contributions leading to this World Cup final. Spain’s confidence was rooted in their impressive recent form, including a UEFA Nations League win in 2023, another final in 2025, and a Euro title, defeating top teams, including France, multiple times.
“There are much harder things in life than a football match,” Yamal said. “It’s a game, I know what I’m capable of, and I’m not worried about anything.”
France underestimated Spain, presuming their usual approach would suffice. Spain countered with a plan tailored to dismantle French strengths while exploiting weaknesses. Yamal showcased this by frequently challenging France’s Lucas Digne, pushing Digne to earn a penalty for Spain. By the game’s end, Digne was substituted, marking a tactical victory.
Yamal’s experience is impressive. Before 20, he played in an Euros final, now a World Cup final. Spain frequently won field battles. Olise, typically influential, was sidelined due to Spain’s Rodri and Fabian Ruiz’s discipline. France’s midfield appeared undermanned, affecting their playmaking and defensive stance. Adrien Rabiot faced challenges with a booking in the first half and was replaced at halftime.
Rodri, critical to Spain with his return from injury, served as the midfield anchor, disrupting French attempts. Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente praised Rodri’s role, calling him the team’s “backbone.”
“We did it with discipline, organization, commitment, effort, we interpreted well all the game facets,” said De la Fuente.
Despite their talent, Spain’s players weren’t widely recognized globally except for Yamal. However, their performance proved they played up to competition levels. Late goals against Portugal in the round of 16 and Belgium in the quarter-finals hinted at a team in sync with tenacity.
The team spirit was strong, with De la Fuente emphasizing the importance of cohesion during their World Cup journey. Behind this collective effort was an unparalleled performance during the tournament. France, lacking any shots on target until late, found themselves outplayed.
Pedro Porro secured a standing ovation and man-of-the-match recognition. Aymeric Laporte, returning from Saudi Arabia to Athletic Bilbao, and 19-year-old Pau Cubarsi, who successfully contained Mbappe, were defensive standouts. Dani Olmo contributed creatively, key in Spain’s second goal.
De la Fuente remarked on Spain’s defensive coherence over goals, stating, “This team interprets to perfection every single game.” In 2010, Spain’s only World Cup win saw them concede only twice; in 2012’s Euros victory, they conceded just once. Through this World Cup, Belgium was the sole team to breach their defense. The legacy of past Spanish teams, seen in players like Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos attending, remains secure.