So, in a state with a history of Spanish conquest, history could be repeating itself for Spain. As in Euro 2024, they beat France in a semi-final. As in 2010, they could follow victory in the European Championships by doing the double, by adding a World Cup. Deep in the heart of Texas, Luis de la Fuente’s side took a sizeable step towards greatness.
Didier Deschamps had pronounced them as the favourites to win the World Cup. It turns out that was not just kidology. As the France manager’s epic reign came in effect to an end, it was without a second World Cup or a third consecutive final. Kylian Mbappe may yet go on to become the greatest World Cup goalscorer and player; but not yet, not in Dallas, not now.