WATCH: Riots break out in France after 2-0 World Cup semi-final loss to Spain | Football News

Riots broke out in France (Image source: X)

France’s 2026 FIFA World Cup dreams came to an end on Tuesday when they lost 2-0 to Spain in the semifinals at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. However, after the defeat, the video was widely shared on social media, sparking riots.

Spain beats France to advance to World Cup final

Spain finished France with a composed performance and booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals. Spain scored twice to seal a 2-0 win, leaving Deschamps’ side frustrated as they struggled to create clear-cut chances despite having attacking stars such as Kylian Mbappe.The defeat left French fans devastated and their hopes of winning a third World Cup were dashed. Much of the discussion among fans after the game centered on France’s lack of offensive cohesion, Kylian Mbappe’s lackluster performance and the penalties conceded in the first half.

outbreak in france

France was in turmoil after losing 2-0 to Spain in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals. After the final whistle in Arlington, Texas, riots broke out in parts of the French capital, with chaotic scenes on the streets.

What’s next for France?

Didier Deschamps’ side must now regroup for a third-place play-off on Saturday, July 18, 2026, rather than traveling to the final in New Jersey, where they will face the losers of the second semi-final. The France captain said Spain’s midfield was given too much freedom, allowing Spain to dominate possession and control the game.“That’s what we asked them to do. We gave the midfielders too much time to play and they had the quality to play. If you don’t change Spain’s plan it’s difficult. Penalties also helped them get into the game and then they scored the second goal and we didn’t have the quality to get to the final,” Mbappe added.Mbappe also admitted responsibility for the defeat, saying the criticism came from his role as captain.“When you win you get all the glory and when you don’t win you have to take responsibility. It’s part of my game, my life and as captain I have to take all the responsibility. We wanted to get to the final but we didn’t and we have to accept what people say to us,” he said.