Gary Neville shocked as Spain beats France 2-0 to reach 2026 World Cup final
Spain defeated France 2-0 in the 2026 World Cup semi-final on July 15, securing a place in the final with a penalty from Mikel Oyarzabal and a composed finish by Pedro Porro. France, who entered the match as favourites, will now contest the third-place play-off. Spain will face either Argentina or England in the final, setting up a potential blockbuster showdown. Speaking on ITV, former Manchester United defender Gary Neville said he and many others were in shock, praising Spain’s full‑backs, Marc Cucurella and Pedro Porro, for outperforming their French counterparts while noting Lucas Digne struggled. The result shifts the tournament narrative, affecting fan expectations, betting markets, and travel plans for those hoping to see France lift the trophy. With the final just days away, supporters must decide whether to back Spain’s momentum or consider the opposite finalists, and travelers may need to adjust plans for the final venue in the United States, Canada or Mexico.