Spain and France continued their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with impressive victories in international friendly matches on Monday, building momentum ahead of the tournament's opening week.
European champions Spain came from behind to defeat Peru 3-1 in a lively warm-up encounter. Peru stunned the Spaniards early when striker Gianluca Lapadula found the net in the 14th minute, putting the South Americans ahead against the run of play. However, Spain responded with their trademark possession-based football and gradually took control of the contest.
Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal played a key role in Spain's comeback, creating several opportunities as Peru struggled to contain the attacking pressure. Spain equalized before halftime through midfielder Pedri, who finished a well-worked move inside the penalty area.
The Spanish side dominated the second half and took the lead shortly after the restart when striker Álvaro Morata converted from close range. Substitute Nico Williams then sealed the victory with a late goal, ensuring a comfortable 3-1 result for coach Luis de la Fuente and his squad.
Meanwhile, France secured a professional win over Northern Ireland in another pre-World Cup friendly. The 2022 World Cup finalists controlled possession throughout the match and rarely looked troubled by their opponents.
Captain Kylian Mbappé was at the center of France's attacking moves, helping his side maintain pressure in the final third. The breakthrough came in the first half, with France taking advantage of a defensive lapse to move ahead.
Northern Ireland showed determination and remained organized defensively, but France's superior quality eventually proved decisive. A second-half goal extended the lead and effectively ended any hopes of a comeback, allowing coach Didier Deschamps to rotate his squad and give valuable minutes to several players.
Both Spain and France will head into the World Cup with confidence following their victories. Spain's attacking fluidity and depth were on full display against Peru, while France demonstrated the balance and experience that have made them one of the favorites for the title.
With the tournament set to begin in the United States, Canada and Mexico, the final round of warm-up fixtures is providing teams with an opportunity to fine-tune tactics, assess player fitness and build momentum before the world's biggest football event gets underway.
