Watch: Riots erupt in France after 2-0 World Cup semi-final loss to Spain

Riots broke out in France (Image: X) France’s 2026 World Cup dream came to a heartbreaking end after a 2-0 loss to Spain in the semifinals at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday. However, after the loss, riots break out as videos are widely circulated on social media.

Spain beat France to book their place in the World Cup finals

Spain produced a composed display to end France’s campaign and book a place in the 2026 World Cup finals. La Roja struck twice to seal a 2-0 win, frustrating Didier Deschamps’ side who struggled to create clear-cut chances despite boasting attacking stars such as Kylian Mbappé.The defeat left French fans devastated as hopes of a third World Cup title ended. Much of the post-match discussion among fans focused on France’s lack of attacking cohesion, Mbappé’s subdued display and the penalty conceded in the opening half.

France explodes

France descended into riots after losing 2-0 to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals. Riots followed in parts of the French capital after the final whistle in Arlington, Texas, with chaotic scenes on the streets.

What will happen next for France?

With a place in the final in New Jersey, Didier Deschamps’ side must now regroup for the third place play-off match this Saturday, July 18, 2026, where they will face the loser of the second semi-final match. The France captain said Spain’s midfield was given too much freedom, allowing La Roja to dominate possession and take control of the match.“That’s what we let them do. We gave the midfield too much time to play and they have the quality to play. It’s difficult if you don’t change Spain’s plan. The penalty also helped (them) come 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 accepted responsibility for the defeat and said criticism comes with the role of captain.“You take all the glory when you win, when you don’t win, but you have to take the blame. It’s part of my game, my life and as captain I have to take all the responsibility. We wanted to go to the final but we didn’t and we have to take what people tell us,” he said.