Pedro Porro scored the decisive second goal as Spain defeated France 2-0 in the World Cup semi-final in Dallas, securing their place in the final. The right-back, tasked with neutralizing Kylian Mbappé, instead became the hero at the other end, bursting into the box to convert Dani Olmo's layoff in the 60th minute.
Porro's Decisive Strike
Porro's goal came after a swift counter-attack, showcasing Spain's tactical execution. He kissed the badge and raced to the corner, mobbed by teammates. "Not even in my wildest dreams could I have imagined this," Porro said after the match. The goal effectively sealed the game, as France had only managed one shot on target before that point.
Spain's Dominance
Spain controlled the match from the start, keeping possession and limiting France's chances. Unai Simón saved from Ousmane Dembélé in the 94th minute, marking only the second French shot on target. Spain have conceded just once all tournament. "We knew one of the keys was keeping the ball," defender Pau Cubarsí said. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring with a penalty in the first half, his 90th career penalty converted at an 89.65% success rate.
Team Effort and Calm
Spain's calmness was evident throughout. "Tranquility is power," coach Luis de la Fuente often says. Oyarzabal noted, "We knew that with calm we could hurt them." Porro, who made way late in the game, watched from the bench as Spain saw out the victory to chants of "olé." The win was a collective effort, with Rodri, Fabián Ruiz, and the entire squad performing at a high level.
The victory sets up a final appearance for Spain, who have not won the World Cup since 2010. Porro, who celebrated that win as a 10-year-old, now stands one step from emulating that legendary side.
