A classic tournament clash of styles: Spain's possession machine against France's lethal transition game. Spain controlled the ball and territory through Rodri, Pedri and Zubimendi, pinning France deep — but Deschamps' side were content to absorb and strike. Mbappé's 23rd-minute breakaway, set up by Dembélé, gave France the lead against the run of play. Spain pressed relentlessly and finally levelled when Yamal's cutback found Oyarzabal at the back post in the 78th. With the game heading toward penalties, Cherki's introduction tilted extra time, and his slipped pass let Dembélé curl home the winner on 104. Maignan's saves and the Saliba–Upamecano wall held firm through a frantic finish.

• Spain dominated possession (58%) but France's transitions carried sharper xG per shot
• Mbappé struck first on the counter; Oyarzabal forced extra time off a Yamal cutback
• Dembélé's 104th-minute winner decided a heavyweight semi-final
• France reach a third final in four World Cups despite being out-passed