Watch: Riots erupt in France after 0-2 FIFA World Cup semifinal loss to Spain | Football News
France’s 2026 FIFA World Cup dream came to a heartbreaking end after a 2-0 defeat to Spain in the semifinal at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday. However, after the loss the riots are triggered as videos are widely circulated on social media.
Spain outclass France to book World Cup final berth
Spain produced a composed display to end France’s campaign and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. La Roja struck twice to seal a 2-0 victory, frustrating Didier Deschamps’ side, who struggled to create clear-cut chances despite boasting attacking stars such as Kylian Mbappé.The defeat left French fans devastated as hopes of lifting a third World Cup title came to an end. Much of the post-match discussion among supporters centered on France’s lack of attacking cohesion, Mbappé’s subdued display, and the penalty conceded in the opening half.
France erupts
France descended into unrest following 2-0 defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal. The final whistle in Arlington, Texas, was followed by riots in parts of the French capital, with chaotic scenes unfolding on the streets.
What’s next for France?
Instead of heading to the final in New Jersey, Didier Deschamps’ squad must now regroup for the third-place playoff match this Saturday, July 18, 2026, where they will face the loser of the second semifinal match. The French skipper said Spain’s midfield was given too much freedom, allowing La Roja to dominate possession and take control of the contest.“That’s what we let them do. We let the midfield too much time to play and they have the quality to play. It’s difficult when you don’t change the plan of Spain. The penalty helped (them) also to come in the game and then they scored the second goal and we didn’t have the quality to get to the final,” Mbappe added.Mbappe also accepted responsibility for the defeat, saying criticism comes with the role of captain.“You take all the glory when you win, when you don’t win but you have to take the blame. It’s part of my game, my life, and as captain I have to take all the responsibility. We wanted to go to the final, we didn’t and we have to take what people say to us,” he said.
