Spain got their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign off to a flying start, beat France 2-0 in a well-deserved performance at AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas. The three-point haul launches them to the top of their group in a competition that has already proven unpredictable and compelling in equal measure. The 2026 edition — the first to feature 48 teams — is co-hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with 104 matches scheduled from 11 June to the final on 19 July. Spain could not have asked for a better start to their journey.
This 2-goal contest featured some fine finishing, though scorer details are yet to be confirmed by official sources.
Spain edged the territorial battle, finishing with 50.9% possession against their opponent's 49.1%. The shot count read 10 to 10 — both sides showed greater menace in the final third but the numbers only tell part of the story.
Spain top their group with a maximum haul of three points from the opening fixture. For France, the recovery work begins immediately — there is plenty of football still to play in a format that gives every team a genuine chance to qualify. The 70,176 crowd inside AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas played their part throughout.
With 48 teams making this the largest World Cup in history, the group stage alone delivers an extraordinary volume of high-stakes international football. The United States, Canada and Mexico have already produced unforgettable atmospheres — and there is plenty more to come.
