Spain defeated France 2-0 in the World Cup semi-final. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro unleashed joy at the Fuente de Cibeles in Madrid, where hundreds of fans gathered to celebrate the team's progression to the final.
The Spanish football team is now in the World Cup final. The national team won 2-0 against France in the semi-final held at the Lusail Stadium, with goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro. The news sparked a wave of euphoria across Spain, but especially in Madrid, where the Fuente de Cibeles once again became the epicentre of celebration.
A red tide at Cibeles
Minutes before the final whistle, hundreds of fans began to gather around the goddess Cibeles, the traditional site for major celebrations of Real Madrid and the national team. Chanting “Champions, champions!”, attendees shouted the names of the goalscorers and players like Lamine Yamal, who had a great match. The square was painted red and yellow, with flags and scarves waving in the wind.
Among those present were many Madrid locals and also residents from other communities. Alberto, a fan from Madrid, joked that “this is historic, we’ve been waiting 16 years to return to a final.” The reference to the last World Cup title, won in South Africa in 2010, was constant among the supporters.
Anticipation of a formidable rival
Fans are already speculating about the final's opponent. All signs point to Argentina, who are facing England in the other semi-final. The predictions at Cibeles were mostly optimistic: many consider Spain the favourite, albeit with caution. “We cannot underestimate anyone, but this team has the quality to beat anyone,” said Ramón, a native of Valencia but residing in Madrid. The final will take place next Sunday at the same venue, the Lusail Stadium.
The celebration proceeded without notable incidents. Municipal Police officers ensured safety, but there were no disturbances. However, there was a small scare: a fan dropped a replica of the World Cup, which caused some boos among the superstitious. “Let’s hope it’s not a bad omen,” joked one supporter, while another picked up the toy trophy amidst laughter.
The Pedri factor and the team's effort
Beyond the goalscorers, fans highlighted the role of Pedri, the Canary Island midfielder who was key in building the play. “Pedri is the engine of the team; without him, we wouldn’t be what we are,” stated a group of young fans wearing his shirt. The coach, for his part, has managed to blend youth and experience, and the team arrives at the final with soaring morale.
For the Madrid fan, this final has a special flavour. The capital will once again be the centre of attention if Spain lifts the trophy. The Madrid City Council is already preparing a large screen at Cibeles for those who cannot travel to Qatar to follow the match. The anticipation is high, and forecasts suggest a human tide if the national team is crowned champion.
For now, the party continues. Bars around Cibeles and throughout the city have experienced a night of madness, with drinks flying and the usual songs. “This is just the beginning,” fans chanted. On Sunday, all roads will lead to Cibeles.
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