Mbappe’s World Cup final streak ends; first semi-final exit in third major

Kylian Mbappe’s remarkable run of reaching the World Cup final in every appearance has come to an end. The French superstar experienced his first semi-final exit on Wednesday as France were beaten 2-0 by Spain in the 2026 tournament.

The 27-year-old, who helped France win the trophy in 2018 and reach the final in 2022, was left visibly disappointed after the defeat. This was Mbappe’s third World Cup but the first in which Les Bleus will not contest the showpiece match. 

Mbappe’s World Cup final streak ends; first semi-final exit in third major

Spain produced a dominant performance to book their place in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium, where they will face the winner of Thursday’s semi-final between England and Argentina. 

France will now contest the third-place play-off. The result marks a significant milestone for the young Spanish side while ending French hopes of a third straight final appearance. 

Mbappé, despite strong performances throughout the campaign, could not inspire his team past a well-organised Spanish defence and attack. Additionally, following the loss, it will be the end of an era for head coach Didier Deschamps before Zinedine Zidane takes over after the third-place match. 

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