Spain’s stunning 2-0 victory over France in the World Cup semi-final has sent shockwaves through the sports world, yet you’d think the establishment media missed the memo. Outlets like ESPN and BBC fawn over Kylian Mbappé’s “talent” but all but gloss over how Spain effectively shut him down. Their narratives serve more as a glorification of a star rather than an acknowledgment of tactical superiority. Where’s the deep dive into Spain’s strategy? Or perhaps that doesn’t fit the narrative they want to spin.

Meanwhile, FOX Sports remains steadfast, framing this match as a “David vs. Goliath” storyline, trying to infuse a sense of drama that conveniently overlooks the fact that Spain’s roster has depth and skill that shatters the “underdog” trope. It’s time we stop selling the fairy tale—Spain played brilliant football, and that’s the story. Instead, we are sold the same old narratives by a corporate media that loves to sensationalize instead of analyze.

Audiences deserve better. We’re not here for the glossy highlights that undermine real skill and strategy. The mainstream media’s refusal to acknowledge the game’s intricacies does a disservice to the fans and players who put in the hard work. So, let’s cut through the fluff: Spain deserves all the credit for this win, not just because they beat France but because they showcased football at its finest—organized and tactical, not just reliant on individual brilliance.