MOGADISHU, Somalia — July 15, 2026 —Spain secured a 2-0 victory over France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final on Tuesday night, advancing to the tournament’s final, while thousands of football supporters gathered at hotels, restaurants, cafés, and public viewing venues across Mogadishu to watch one of the competition’s biggest matches.

Large crowds filled venues across the Somali capital as businesses installed giant LED screens and expanded seating areas to accommodate football fans eager to watch the clash between two of Europe’s leading national teams. According to hotel managers and restaurant operators, demand for seats increased significantly ahead of kick-off, with many venues reporting full occupancy before the match began.

Spain took the lead in the first half after Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty in the 22nd minute following a foul inside the penalty area. The European champions maintained control for much of the contest before Pedro Porro doubled the advantage in the 58th minute with a well-taken finish assisted by Dani Olmo.

France, led by captain Kylian Mbappé, created several opportunities but were unable to break through Spain’s disciplined defense. The Spanish side managed the closing stages effectively to secure a place in the World Cup final without conceding a goal.

The victory sends Spain into the FIFA World Cup final, where they will face the winner of the second semi-final between Argentina and England.

Mogadishu Fans Fill Hotels and Restaurants

Across Mogadishu, football supporters gathered hours before kick-off at hotels, restaurants, cafés, and other public venues broadcasting the match on large screens.

Many businesses remained open late into the night as fans watched the semi-final together in a festive atmosphere. Supporters wearing the colors of both Spain and France followed every moment of the match, with celebrations erupting after each Spanish goal.

According to business owners, international football tournaments continue to attract growing audiences in Somalia, with major World Cup matches drawing large crowds despite the late evening kick-off.

Local residents said communal viewing has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly during the FIFA World Cup, as supporters prefer watching high-profile matches alongside friends and fellow football enthusiasts.

Spain Continue Impressive Tournament

Spain entered the semi-final after a strong run through the tournament, having defeated Portugal and Belgium in the knockout rounds while conceding very few goals throughout the competition. France also reached the last four in impressive fashion after eliminating Morocco in the quarter-finals.

The meeting between the two European football powers was widely regarded as one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures, featuring some of the world’s top players, including Kylian Mbappé, Lamine Yamal, Rodri, Dani Olmo, and Ousmane Dembélé.

Spain’s disciplined defensive display and efficient finishing proved decisive as they booked their place in the championship match.

Football remains one of the most popular sports in Somalia despite decades of conflict that have limited sporting infrastructure.

International competitions such as the FIFA World Cup regularly attract large audiences across the country, with hotels, restaurants, cafés, and community centres frequently organizing public screenings of major matches.

In Mogadishu, businesses have increasingly invested in large television screens and outdoor viewing areas during international tournaments, allowing supporters to gather in large numbers to watch games together.

The FIFA World Cup 2026, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is the first edition of the tournament to feature 48 national teams under FIFA’s expanded format.

Spain’s victory marks a return to the FIFA World Cup final and reinforces the country’s position among international football’s leading nations. The result also ends France’s hopes of reaching another consecutive World Cup final.

For Somalia, the large crowds seen across Mogadishu underline football’s ability to bring communities together. Public screenings of major international matches have become important social events, providing opportunities for young people and families to gather around a shared sporting occasion.

The turnout also reflects the growing commercial importance of major sporting events for hotels, restaurants, and cafés, many of which experience increased business during international football tournaments.

Spain will now prepare for the FIFA World Cup final against the winner of the second semi-final between Argentina and England. France will conclude their tournament after falling short in the last four, while football fans in Somalia are expected to gather once again in large numbers for the championship match.