Luis De La Fuente Calls for World Cup Trophy

Spain’s head coach Luis de la Fuente has emphasized that reaching the final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will hold little significance unless La Roja seals the victory by lifting the trophy, following their elimination of France to come closer to global success.

Spain secured their spot in the final with an impressive 2-0 win over France on Tuesday night, marking their return to the world’s biggest football stage for the first time since clinching the World Cup in South Africa in 2010.

La Roja started strong, with Mikel Oyarzabal confidently converting a penalty after teenage star Lamine Yamal was fouled in the box by Lucas Digne.

Pedro Porro confirmed the win in the second half, netting Spain’s second goal to propel De la Fuente’s team into Sunday’s final showdown.

This victory also holds historical significance, representing Spain’s first-ever win against France at a FIFA World Cup, having previously lost to them 3-1 in the Round of 16 during the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

Spain is now aiming for a second World Cup title, having previously won in 2010 with a narrow 1-0 victory over the Netherlands in Johannesburg.

Despite celebrating this significant win, De la Fuente maintained that their mission is not yet complete.

“Before we departed, we had discussions as a group, and some teammates reminded me of it today,” shared the 65-year-old.

“Our message was that we were about to challenge one of the top national teams, but they were also facing the best team in the world.”

“That is the ideal approach to neutralize any tactics the opponent may employ. But it requires organization, balance, sacrifice, hard work, remarkable footballing talent, and a thorough understanding of every aspect of the game.

“I have always believed that Spanish footballers are the best in the world due to their comprehension of the game. Spanish players excel in attack, during offensive play, and in defense.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment for Spanish football, its coaches, teams, and clubs. We should genuinely appreciate what we have in Spain, and today’s performance showcased this perfectly.

“But let me reiterate: while we are thrilled, this team is not content with merely reaching the final. We will fight, as we always do and as is expected of us, to try and win the FIFA World Cup. Achieving that would be something remarkable.”

De la Fuente also acknowledged the steadfast support of Spanish fans, noting that their encouragement has significantly uplifted the squad throughout the tournament.

“First and foremost, I want to express my gratitude to everyone, as we genuinely feel the backing,” he stated.

“Although we exist in our own bubble during the tournament, that support still reaches us. We hear from our families and friends and see a nation united behind its national team, proud of this fantastic group of talented young players.

“This fills me with immense pride and joy. Observing an entire nation’s happiness brings all of us in this delegation immense pride. There’s no greater joy than making others happy.

“That drives us and invigorates us. My message to everyone is: continue to support us, continue to push us forward because we rely on that encouragement.

“What lies ahead will be even harder, and we eagerly anticipate playing in the World Cup final. Thank you.”

Spain will now focus on Sunday’s final, where they will face either the defending champions Argentina or England, who will compete in the second semi-final on Wednesday evening for a spot in the final.