Competition
Tactical analysis, match reports and football insights from FIFA World Cup.
Spain's defensive organisation, midfield control and decisive attacking moments secured a 2-0 win over France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final.
Portugal controlled the first half through aggressive pressure and territorial possession, but Croatia's second-half adjustment exposed the space behind that pressure before Portugal's structural changes and wide delivery mechanism decided the tie.
Mexico's 2–0 victory over South Africa was built around a coordinated diamond press that disrupted South Africa's build-up and created opportunities to attack immediately after high recoveries.