Spain and France will reignite their rivalry today (Tuesday) as these two giants meet in the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Path to the Semifinals for Spain and France
France has been impeccable in their journey to this stage, finishing the group phase with a perfect nine points before eliminating Sweden (round of 32), Paraguay (round of 16), and Morocco (quarterfinals) in the knockout stages.
Spain, on the other hand, rebounded from a surprising 0-0 stalemate with tournament newcomers Cape Verde to secure wins against Saudi Arabia (4-0) and Uruguay (1-0), followed by triumphs over Austria, Portugal, and Belgium in the subsequent knockout rounds.
As they approach today’s match, Spanish supporters can take heart from recent history, as their team has claimed victory in seven of their last ten encounters against France.
The last two meetings were particularly significant: a 2-1 win in the semifinals of Euro 2024, which Spain went on to win, and a thrilling 5-4 finish at last year’s UEFA Nations League finals.
France Seeks Another Victory Over Spain At FIFA World
However, this current generation of Spanish players aspires to become the first team to defeat France in a FIFA senior men’s World Cup.
The only previous encounter between the two sides in this tournament took place in the round of 16 in Germany 2006, where France emerged victorious with a score of 3-1.
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David Villa opened the scoring for Spain from the penalty spot, but Franck Ribery equalized for France with just four minutes remaining in the first half.
As the match neared its conclusion, Patrick Vieira put France ahead 2-1, and captain Zinedine Zidane sealed the win with a third goal to advance France into the quarterfinals.
Potential Starters/Injury Updates
Despite being substituted in the second half of France’s quarterfinal match, it is expected that Mbappe will recover from a minor ankle sprain and be fit to start.
Midfielder Manu Kone also left the field due to a knee concern, but it is believed to be a precaution, and he could compete with Aurelien Tchouameni for a starting position after Tchouameni returned from a thigh injury.
Already with eight goals, Golden Boot contender Mbappe is set to partner with Ballon D’Or winner Dembele once more – the duo has created 19 chances for each other throughout the tournament.
It remains uncertain whether Doue or Barcola will join them and Olise in the French attacking lineup – Spain’s offensive setup is also not yet determined.
Mikel Oyarzabal has netted four goals in this World Cup and is expected to lead a dynamic forward line, but Ferran Torres, along with the returning Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino, are all vying for starting roles.
Meanwhile, midfielders Mikel Merino and Pedri are likely candidates to begin, putting pressure on Fabian Ruiz and Dani Olmo to secure their spots.
Lamine Yamal has yet to recapture his impressive form from Euro 2024, but the young winger remains an integral part of La Roja’s right flank, collaborating with Pedro Porro, who has seemingly edged out Marcos Llorente for selection.
By James Agberebi
