Pau Cubarsí: Spain silenced doubters with World Cup semifinal win over France

Spain punched their ticket to the 2026 World Cup final after a commanding semifinal victory over France. Teenage defender Pau Cubarsí, a product of Barcelona’s academy, didn’t hold back when reflecting on the performance that put La Roja one win away from glory. “There was a lot of talk about our defense and our goalkeepers before this game, but we shut a lot of mouths with the way we played,” Cubarsí said. He emphasized the importance of keeping clean sheets in modern football, noting that Spain have conceded just once in the entire tournament. “We pressed harder than we have at any point in this World Cup, and now we’re in the final. That’s all that matters.” The 19-year-old insisted he has no preference for the final opponent — either England or Argentina will emerge from the other semifinal. “Whoever it is, we’ll rest, study them, and go out to win. The dream is still alive.” Cubarsí also sent a message to young players watching: “Football is about enjoying yourself and fighting for your dreams. Keep pushing — your moment will come.” France, meanwhile, will face the loser of the England-Argentina clash in the third-place match.