France and Spain Set for World Cup Semi-Final Showdown in Texas
European Giants Clash in Rematch of Euro 2024 Thriller at Dallas Stadium
Callum Smith
France has advanced to the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup, setting the stage for a monumental clash against Spain.
This pivotal game unfolds at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, a venue now synonymous with high-stakes international football.
The match, a 'final before the final,' features France's potent attack, led by Kylian Mbappe, against Spain's formidable defense, which has conceded only one goal.
UK viewers stream the action live online via the ITVX app or ITV's website, ensuring broad access to this critical fixture.
France enters the semi-final as the reigning European champions, bringing a squad that includes Golden Boot contender Kylian Mbappe, who has scored eight goals in the tournament.
Mbappe was substituted in France's last match but confirmed he was not injured; he expects to recover from a minor ankle sprain and start on Tuesday.
He expects to recover from a minor ankle sprain and start on Tuesday.
The French starting XI includes Maignan, Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Digne, Rabiot, Tchouameni, Dembele, Olise, Barcola, and Mbappe.
Aurelien Tchouameni returned to full team training, while Manu Kone also remains available to start after his precautionary withdrawal.
This fixture marks a significant moment for Didier Deschamps, who takes charge of his 26th World Cup match, surpassing Helmut Schon's record.
Deschamps' longevity at the helm delivered major tournament success, including the Euro 2024 title.
Spain lost only one of 27 major tournament matches since Russia 2018, building a formidable defensive record.
This robust defense conceded only one goal across those 27 matches, presenting a stark challenge to France's attacking lineup.
Spain lost only one of 27 major tournament matches since Russia 2018, building a formidable defensive record. This robust defense conceded only one goal across those 27 matches, presenting a stark challenge to France's attacking lineup.
Meanwhile, Luis de la Fuente guided Spain to 12 victories in his first 13 matches in charge, establishing a dominant run.
Spain topped Group H, beat Austria, and eliminated Portugal on their path to the semi-finals.
Mikel Merino scored late against Belgium in the quarter-finals, securing Spain's progression to this stage.
Unai Simon's impressive run of six World Cup clean sheets ended against Belgium, but Spain's defense remains a formidable challenge.
Lamine Yamal, Spain's youngest goalscorer in European Championship history, could be a decisive player in the match, offering a dynamic threat.
Nico Williams returned to play for Spain after an injury; both Williams and Yeremy Pino are available for selection, adding depth to the squad.
This strategic shift follows Tuesday's match, which also coincides with Bastille Day in France, adding another layer of historical significance for the French squad and nation.
The winner of this semi-final advances to the World Cup final, while the loser competes in the Third-place play-off on Saturday, July 18, at 10pm BST.
Following this clash, England and Argentina face each other in the second semi-final on Wednesday, July 15, also at 8pm BST, completing the final four matchups.