Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
France vs Spain penalty debate followed Mikel Oyarzabal’s 22nd-minute spot kick during the Spain national team’s 2-0 World Cup semifinal victory at Dallas Stadium on Tuesday.
There was no penalty shootout. The Spain national team received one penalty during regulation time, and it provided the breakthrough before Pedro Porro scored in the 58th minute.
For a closer look at the match’s disciplinary decisions, read France vs Spain Cards: Every Booking and Major Foul Explained.
How the Penalty Happened
Marc Cucurella sent a high cross toward the far side of the France penalty area, where Lucas Digne appeared ready to control and clear. Lamine Yamal reacted first, accelerating between the defender and the dropping ball.
Lucas Digne raised his left boot to make the clearance but caught Lamine Yamal on the thigh. The contact sent the Spain winger down inside the penalty area.
Referee Iván Barton had a clear view and immediately pointed to the spot. The decision was not overturned, leaving Mikel Oyarzabal to take the penalty.
Why the Decision Was Correct
Under IFAB Law 12, kicking or attempting to kick an opponent is a direct free-kick offence. When that offence is committed by a defender inside their own penalty area, play restarts with a penalty kick.
Lucas Digne did not need to intend to foul Lamine Yamal. The location of the contact and the defender’s raised boot gave Iván Barton enough reason to award the penalty.
Lamine Yamal also had a genuine opportunity to reach the ball. His quick movement surprised Lucas Digne, but the France defender remained responsible for making contact.
Lucas Digne was not booked because a penalty does not automatically require a yellow card. Iván Barton punished the foul with the spot kick but issued no further sanction.
Mikel Oyarzabal Makes France Pay
Mikel Oyarzabal drove the penalty beyond Mike Maignan, who moved in the correct direction but could not reach the shot. The goal forced the France national team to chase the match against Spain’s organised defensive block.
The official FIFA match report records the penalty as Spain’s opening goal. Pedro Porro later completed the 2-0 result.
