After 102 games over five weeks, the FIFA World Cup has reached its first all-Spanish-speaking final since the inaugural tournament in 1930. Reigning World Cup and Copa America champions Argentina will face current European champions Spain for the title.

In the semifinals, Spain defeated France 2-0. Lamine Yamal, a day after his 19th birthday, won a penalty converted by Mikel Oyarzabal. Pedro Porro doubled the lead in the 58th minute. Spain's midfield, anchored by Dani Olmo, Rodri, and Fabian Ruiz, dominated possession, while Marc Cucurella and Pedro Porro shut down the wings.

Argentina edged England 2-1 in a tense semifinal. Lionel Messi failed to score but provided a crucial assist. Enzo Fernandez equalized with a long-range strike in the 85th minute, and Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in stoppage time after a pass from Messi. This extended Messi's streak of goals or assists in World Cup matches to 11 consecutive games.

France coach Didier Deschamps criticized the officiating after the match. His team struggled to create chances, with Kylian Mbappe and other attackers neutralized by Spain's defense. Deschamps is expected to be replaced by Zinedine Zidane after the third-place match.

England coach Thomas Tuchel switched to a five-man defense in the 72nd minute but could not hold the lead. He faced criticism for not using Bukayo Saka or Marcus Rashford, who might have provided a counter-attacking threat.

Source: www.aljazeera.com