Spain and France are set to face off in the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup at the home stadium of the Dallas Cowboys, renewing a recent rivalry between two of Europe’s top national teams. The match, scheduled for Tuesday, carries significant anticipation following Spain’s recent successes over France in major tournaments.
Spain eliminated France in the semifinals of the 2024 European Championship and again in last year’s UEFA Nations League, where Spain remains unbeaten in competitive play for 37 matches since March 2023. Despite this strong record, Spain’s current run includes a loss on penalties to Portugal in last year’s Nations League final. France, meanwhile, has maintained a dominant World Cup campaign, scoring 16 goals in six matches and reaching the previous two World Cup finals, winning in 2018.
La Roja advanced to the semifinals after a narrow 2-1 victory over Belgium at SoFi Stadium, sealed by an 88th-minute winning goal from substitute Mikel Merino. Spain conceded only one goal during the entire World Cup, late in the first half against Belgium. The team has been characterized by strong ball possession and tactical discipline, factors they hope will undercut France’s attacking style.
Spain’s rising star Anssumane “Yamal” Fati, who will turn 19 on Monday, has emerged as a key figure for the team. He became the youngest player to score in the 2024 European Championship and was named man of the match against Belgium. While Yamal has registered one goal and no assists in this World Cup, his influence extends beyond statistics through his contributions on the right wing and playmaking efforts. He helped initiate the team’s first goal against Belgium with a well-executed combination with teammate Pedro Porro that eventually resulted in Fabián Ruiz’s goal.
Yamal downplayed the importance of personal stats, noting his modest output during Spain’s European Championship victory two years ago when he scored just once but provided four assists. He emphasized confidence in the Spanish squad and their capacity to confront France, which he described as “one of the best” teams in the world. “We don’t fear anyone,” Yamal stated ahead of the match.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has consistently praised France throughout the tournament and knockout stages, acknowledging the quality of Les Bleus while expressing belief in his team’s potential to progress. “We are pleased to be in the semifinals, but we want more,” de la Fuente said. “We are capable of winning this game, and not just now, but I would have said this a few weeks ago as well.”
The clash promises to be a contest of contrasting strengths, with Spain’s possession-based approach aiming to disrupt France’s offensive potency. Spain’s recent form, combined with cautious optimism from their players and coach, sets the stage for a highly competitive semifinal matchup.