On Tuesday, the official Instagram account of the Spanish Royal Family shared a jubilant message as Spain's national soccer team secured their place in the 2026 World Cup final. Their victory over France in the semifinal at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas, marked this achievement.
"Spain is in the final! You've once again proven why you are one of the world's great teams. Now, with an entire nation behind you, it's time to fight for the title. Thank you for making us enjoy this journey. Let's go for it, @sefutbol!" the Royal Family expressed on Instagram, accompanied by Spain's coat of arms and hashtags #VamosEspaña, #FIFAWorldCup, and #CopaMundialFIFA.
This message reflects the monarchy's institutional support for a national team that has showcased an impeccable tournament performance, defeating Austria (3-0), Portugal (1-0), and Belgium (2-1) before triumphing over the French in the semifinals.
Spain's Road to the Final
Spain advanced to this stage after finishing first in Group H with seven points, not conceding a single goal during the group phase. They overcame Austria in the round of 16, edged out Portugal in the round of 8 with a last-minute goal by Mikel Merino, and defeated Belgium in the quarterfinals with goals from Fabián Ruiz and Merino.
France reached the semifinal by defeating Morocco 2-0 in the quarterfinals with goals from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, but they couldn't withstand Spain's superior performance in the Dallas showdown.
Royal Support and Commitment
Although King Felipe VI was not present at the semifinal due to his commitments at the Princess of Girona Awards in Barcelona alongside Queen Letizia, he had expressed his intention to return if Spain made it to the final.
The King had previously shown his dedication to the Spanish team by traveling to Guadalajara, Mexico, to watch the match against Uruguay on June 27, where he encouraged players in the locker room and promised to return should Spain reach the final round of the tournament.
Felipe VI also featured in the video unveiling the 26-player squad on May 25, stating, "When the national team plays, we all play."
Spain's Diverse Squad
Under the guidance of coach Luis de la Fuente, Spain's team boasts talents such as Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, Pedri, and Joan García. Notably, the squad includes eight FC Barcelona players and no representatives from Real Madrid, a first in Spain's 17 World Cup appearances.
Spain is set to compete in the final on Sunday, July 19, in New Jersey, facing the winner of the Argentina vs. England match held this Wednesday in Atlanta.
Spain's 2026 World Cup Journey: Key Questions and Answers
Who did Spain defeat to reach the World Cup final?
Spain defeated Austria, Portugal, Belgium, and France to secure their place in the 2026 World Cup final.
What notable fact is associated with Spain's World Cup squad?
The 2026 squad includes eight players from FC Barcelona and none from Real Madrid, a first in Spain's World Cup history.
When and where will the World Cup final be held?
The World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, in New Jersey.