Spain dismantled France 2-0 in their World Cup semi-final on Tuesday, booking a place in Sunday's final against either England or Argentina. While France arrived carrying the weight of expectation behind Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Bradley Barcola, and Desire Doue, Luis de la Fuente's side rendered them virtually powerless.

Even the introduction of Rayan Cherki failed to spark France into life. "In front of them they had the best team in the world," De la Fuente said after the final whistle.

A collective masterclass

This tournament has been billed a World Cup of superstars — Mbappe and Lionel Messi have each scored eight goals, while Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior have all delivered moments of brilliance. Yet Spain are demonstrating that the strongest collective may ultimately prove decisive.

France were restricted to just 0.30 expected goals. "Spain dominated the game in every single aspect," said Patrick Vieira, speaking on ITV. Spain averaged 64 percent possession across the tournament and have made roughly 200 more passes in the final third than any other side.

Possession was broadly even against France, but Spain's use of the ball — and their relentless work without it — exposed the difference between the two teams. Roy Keane, also on ITV, was unequivocal: "They won the game because of out of possession today. They worked in packs. There was intensity and purpose to their play. It was almost the opposite to the French."

Vieira agreed: "Tactically they were all over the French team. When you look at the forward players of Spain, they worked really hard to not let the French players get on the ball."

Yamal, Rodri, and the depth of the squad

Spain do have a superstar in Lamine Yamal, who won the penalty that led to the opening goal after rounding Lucas Digne. But the 19-year-old has scored just once in seven games, and Spain have not needed more from him — so complete is their collective machinery.

Rodri continued to underline his status as the finest midfielder in the world, winning 11 of his 15 duels against France. Pedro Porro added the second goal with a neat one-two alongside Dani Olmo — one of several moments in which France were pulled apart with clinical precision.

The depth runs throughout the squad. Martin Zubimendi stepped in seamlessly at half-time of the European Championship final two years ago. Mikel Oyarzabal has scored five goals, with Ferran Torres a capable deputy. Mikel Merino, meanwhile, has repeatedly shaped matches from the bench.

De la Fuente's record now stands at 13 wins from 14 major tournament games as head coach, a run that began with the European Championship triumph two years ago. As Gary Neville noted before the match, France, England, and Argentina each "play more in moments" — whereas Spain play as one. That distinction may be enough to win them the World Cup.