It is advantage Spain in the first 2026 World Cup semi-final after Mikel Oyarzabal converted a first-half penalty to put the European champions ahead against France. In a tight battle between the two global powerhouses, La Roja take the advantage into half-time. Despite some early half chances for Kylian Mbappe and Bradley Barcola, Les Bleus fell behind for the first time at this summers tournament. Just before the first hydration break of the night, Aston Villa full-back Lucas Digne was unaware of his surroundings in the France penalty area, wildly swinging a foot at a looping ball in an attempt to clear it from danger.What he did not see was Lamine Yamal streaking towards him and getting to the ball before Digne. As a result, the Frenchmans foot connected with the Barcelona winger, who went tumbling to the ground, and prompting the referee to award a penalty. It was Oyarzabal who stepped up, converted, and maintained his 100% conversion record for his country.Spain head into half-time with the lead, and have been the better team in Texas. The 2022 and 2018 finalists now have work to do if they are to get themselves back into the game.You can stay up to date with all the action right here on 101GreatGoals. Topics France National Football Team Lamine Yamal Spain National Football Team Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read World Cup 2026 live: France vs Spain confirmed teams and full line ups as Barcola, Tchouameni start with England or Argentina awaiting winners, TV channel, online stream and stats Ben Miller 14th July, 2026 LIVE France v Spain: Commentary, updates, goals and stats for World Cup semi-final clash Jon Fisher 14th July, 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026: Full France fixtures, results, schedule, confirmed squad, next match, kick off times Ben Miller 14th July, 2026 Kylian Mbappe: World Cup 2026 playing schedule, fixtures, kick off times, where to watch, confirmed news updates and full France squad Ben Miller 14th July, 2026 France v Spain: Expected line-ups, stats and where to watch as European champions meet World Cup favourites Jon Fisher 14th July, 2026 France v Spain: Rodri expresses hope of belated Yamal impact in blockbuster semi-final Nicholas McGee 13th July, 2026
