Lamine Yamal backed up his bold words as Spain defeated France 2-0 to book a place in the FIFA World Cup final.

Ahead of the match, the 18-year-old dismissed suggestions that France was the better team.

"[Better than us?] No. I don't think so. France hasn't beaten us in two years," Yamal said in an interview.

Spain had already beaten France in both the 2024 European Championship, which La Roja went on to win, and the UEFA Nations League.

Despite France entering the semifinal as favorites, Yamal showed little concern.

The French squad featured tournament joint top scorer Kylian Mbappé, assist leader Michael Olise, and Ballon d'Or holder Ousmane Dembélé. However, France struggled to break down a disciplined Spanish defense marshaled by 20-year-old Pau Cubarsí.

Yamal helped create the breakthrough after winning a penalty from left back Lucas Digne by beating him to the ball inside the box.

Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the spot for his fifth goal of the tournament, giving Spain a 1-0 lead.

Spain doubled its advantage when Dani Olmo set up Pedro Porro, with the attacking midfielder once again proving to be one of La Roja's biggest threats in the final third.

Yamal nearly produced the game's standout moment after dribbling through France's defense and finishing clinically, but the goal was ruled out for offside. The Barcelona star shrugged off the disappointment and continued to trouble the French back line throughout the match.

Goalkeeper Unai Simón twice swept off his line to deny Mbappé when the France captain appeared through on goal. Mbappé's frustration boiled over late in the match when he was booked for stepping on the Spanish goalkeeper.

Spain secured a 2-0 victory and advanced to the World Cup final for only the second time in its history, where it will face either England or Argentina.