World Cup: France falters at first real hurdle against Spain as superstars fail to shine

Europe Sports Wed, 15 Jul 2026 06:01:12 GMT High confidence — 76/100

For all the hype surrounding France, it folded at the first serious examination of its World Cup credentials, its campaign ending in a spectacular collapse in a 2-0 semifinal defeat by Spain.
France was every bit as poor as it had been during the opening hour of the 2022 World Cup final against Argentina.
That night, however, it fought its way back, lost only on penalties and could leave with the pride of having helped produce one of the greatest World Cup games.

For all the hype surrounding France, it folded at the first serious examination of its World Cup credentials, its campaign ending in a spectacular collapse in a 2-0 semifinal defeat by Spain.
France was every bit as poor as it had been during the opening hour of the 2022 World Cup final against Argentina.
That night, however, it fought its way back, lost only on penalties and could leave with the pride of having helped produce one of the greatest World Cup games.

Sources: ABC Australia