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France and Spain will battle for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Tuesday, with both European heavyweights seeking to move one step closer to lifting football’s biggest prize.
France, champions in 1998 and 2018, are aiming for a third World Cup title after finishing runners-up to Argentina in the 2022 final. Spain, meanwhile, are chasing only their second World Cup crown, having won the tournament in South Africa in 2010.
France head into the semi-final with Kylian Mbappe leading their attack after scoring eight goals, level with Argentina captain Lionel Messi at the top of the tournament’s scoring chart.
France’s attack also features Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele and winger Michael Olise, while Bradley Barcola and Desire Doue provide further firepower from the bench.
Spain, however, have emerged as one of the tournament’s standout teams despite opening their campaign with a goalless draw against debutants Cape Verde. Since then, Luis de la Fuente’s men have impressed with their possession-based football and defensive solidity, conceding just one goal so far.
Teenage star Lamine Yamal has grown into the tournament after recovering from a hamstring injury and delivered a player-of-the-match performance in Spain’s 2-1 quarter-final victory over Belgium.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Yamal dismissed suggestions that Spain should fear France, saying the European champions were confident of overcoming their rivals.
“I was asked if I was afraid of France, and I said no,” Yamal explained.
“We are European champions. It’s simply football,” he added.
He also noted Spain’s recent victories over France, including wins in the Euro 2024 and UEFA Nations League semi-finals.
Victory would send either side into Sunday’s World Cup final, where they will face the winner of Wednesday’s second semi-final between Argentina and England.
