France vs Spain 2026 World Cup Semi-Final Preview: Team News, Line-ups & Prediction

France and Spain Set for World Cup 2026 Semi-Final Clash at AT&T Stadium

On Tuesday, AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, will host a high-stakes FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final between France and Spain. The French squad aims to become only the third team in World Cup history to reach three consecutive finals. So far, Les Bleus have dominated, winning all six of their matches in regulation time.

In the quarter-finals, Ousmane Dembele and tournament top scorer Kylian Mbappe scored as Didier Deschamps’ side defeated Morocco 2-0. Spain’s path was more dramatic, with substitute Mikel Merino netting a late 88th-minute goal to secure a 2-1 victory over Belgium.

Les Bleus’ Dominant Run

France’s journey has been one of the competition's most commanding performances. They won all group stage matches by a combined 10-2 margin and shut out opponents in every knockout game, except Paraguay, who kept them to a single goal. Their attack is the tournament’s most effective, scoring 16 goals, half from Mbappe alone.

Despite this, France faces a tough challenge against Spain, a team that has had their number recently. The two-time world champions have lost eight of their last ten meetings with La Roja, showing how tight this contest will be. This match also marks a milestone for Deschamps, who will coach his 26th World Cup game, becoming the tournament’s most experienced coach.

Spain’s Resurgence Under Luis de la Fuente

Since their 2010 triumph, Spain struggled in knockout stages until this year’s 3-0 win over Austria in the round of 32. Coach Luis de la Fuente has reversed that trend, building on his success at the 2024 European Championship. His record at major tournaments stands strong with 12 wins and 1 draw.

Spain’s defense has been solid, conceding only once in six World Cup matches. Their resilience will face its biggest test yet against France’s firepower. Still, confidence runs high as Spain remain unbeaten in regulation across their last 36 internationals. This is their second World Cup semi-final since 2010, with a promising history of advancing in six of their last seven major tournament semi-finals.

All eyes will be on Barcelona’s young star Lamine Yamal, who hasn’t fully shined in North America yet but is known for producing decisive moments.

Team News and Expected Line-ups

Mbappe left the quarter-final against Morocco early, causing concern for France, but he is expected to start. Spain enter the match with a full squad, including Pedri, who looked fatigued in the later stages against Belgium.

France (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Kone, Rabiot; Dembele, Olise, Doue; Mbappe.

Spain (4-2-3-1): Simon; Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal.

Prediction

Spain are just one game away from matching Argentina’s all-time unbeaten record in regulation time. Still, France look nearly unstoppable right now. Their quality all over the pitch suggests they won’t miss out on another World Cup final, though this won’t be an easy night for Les Bleus.