France have looked the most complete side in the tournament. Didier Deschamps’ men have scored freely while remaining defensively solid, progressing through the knockout stages without conceding a goal. Kylian Mbappé continues to lead the attack with eight goals, drawing level with Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot and moving within one goal of Messi’s all-time World Cup scoring record of 21. Deschamps will also reach another milestone by taking charge of his 26th World Cup match as France coach.
Spain have matched France stride for stride. After a slow start with a goalless draw against Cape Verde, Luis de la Fuente’s side have built momentum through victories over Austria, Portugal and Belgium. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has embraced the spotlight despite admitting this is the biggest match of his career, while Mikel Merino has become Spain’s unlikely knockout hero with late winning goals in consecutive matches.
Ahead of the contest, France midfielder Adrien Rabiot dismissed suggestions of a special tactical plan to stop Yamal, insisting France must focus on Spain’s collective attacking strength rather than one individual. Spain, meanwhile, remain full of confidence after defeating France in the semi-finals of both UEFA Euro 2024 and the 2025 UEFA Nations League.
The match also brings together two former world champions with contrasting ambitions. Spain are seeking their first World Cup final since their triumph in 2010, while France hope to become only the third nation after Brazil and Germany to reach three consecutive World Cup finals.
Featuring Mbappé, Yamal, Antoine Griezmann, Pedri, Rodri and several other stars, the semi-final promises elite football, fascinating tactical battles and enormous stakes as one European giant moves one step closer to World Cup glory.
