Spain secured their place in the World Cup final with a dominant 2-0 victory over France in Texas on Tuesday evening, with goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro. France, tipped by many to win the tournament, failed to mount a serious challenge in what was Didier Deschamps' final game in charge. Spain have been sublime throughout the tournament, conceding just one goal in seven matches.
Extra rest could prove decisive
Spain will now have five days to recover before Sunday's final, while England or Argentina will have only four days after their semi-final on Wednesday. Former England goalkeeper David James believes the extra 24 hours could be a massive factor. 'Spain have now got the day advantage. I think England vs Argentina is going to have a heavy physical toll on both teams,' James said. 'When you look at Spain versus Belgium, I don't think Spain were overexerted physically. They've got the extra day now having beaten France.'
History backs the advantage
History suggests the day advantage plays a significant role: the last three World Cup winners all played their semi-final before their opponents. In 2022, Argentina beat Croatia 3-0 in their semi-final the day before France beat Morocco, and Argentina went on to win the final on penalties. In 2018, eventual champions France beat Belgium in their semi-final 24 hours before Croatia beat England. In 2014, Germany's 7-1 thrashing of Brazil took place the day before Argentina saw off the Netherlands on penalties, and Germany won the final.
England's path to the final
England must first beat defending champions Argentina on Wednesday in what is expected to be a brutally physical contest. The Three Lions are seeking revenge against Spain, who beat them in the Euro 2024 final two years ago. James noted that the physical toll of the semi-final could be particularly heavy for England, with players like Declan Rice already suffering from fatigue. 'It's how you fit them into training when you're having to rest most of the players for playing so many minutes,' he added. 'But that 24 hours I think makes a massive difference.'
