France Faces Spain in World Cup Semifinal

France’s Unbeaten Run at the 2026 World Cup

France has won all six matches at the 2026 World Cup so far, scoring 16 goals in the process. Kylian Mbappé alone accounts for eight of those strikes, making him the tournament’s top scorer. The dominance has positioned Les Bleus for a third consecutive final appearance, a feat not yet achieved since their 2018 triumph.

The campaign began with a 3‑0 victory over Iraq on June 22 and continued through a series of hard‑fought group games. Each match has deepened the squad’s confidence and highlighted the team’s tactical flexibility. As the knockout stage arrives, the expectation is that France will keep the momentum alive against Spain.

Spain: The Sternest Test Yet

The semifinal will take place on Tuesday, July 14 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, where France will meet a Spain side that has also shown elite form. The winner will move on to meet either England or Argentina in the final on Sunday, July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Both sides bring contrasting styles, making this clash a defining moment for the tournament.

Spain’s previous knockout encounters include a quarter‑final win over Portugal, adding depth to the rivalry. The Spanish defense has conceded only two goals so far, suggesting they will be a tough opponent for Mbappé’s onslaught. The match will be a true test of whether France’s attack can break down a well‑organized Spanish back line.

Key Stats and Background

• France defeated Croatia in 2018 and lost to Argentina on penalties in 2022, appearing in two consecutive finals.
• Mbappé’s eight goals represent half of France’s total tally, underscoring his influence.
• Spain’s quarter‑final victory over Portugal demonstrated their ability to dominate in high‑pressure scenarios.

Projected Lineup vs Spain

Coach Didier Deschamps has charted a lineup anchored by goalkeeper Mike Maignan. In defense, Jules Koundé pairs with Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba and Lucas Digne. The midfield is split between Aurélien Tchouaméni and Adrien Rabiot, while Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise and Désiré Doué support the striker Kylian Mbappé.

Uncertainty at Midfield

Tchouaméni missed the last two games with a muscle injury but is training and could still start over Manu Koné. Deschamps has hinted the player is not 100 percent, leaving fans speculating about the final decision. Doué also edged out Bradley Barcola after a back‑and‑forth battle for a starting spot.

Road to the Final

If France wins on July 14, the team will secure a place at MetLife Stadium for the final on July 19. The match against either England or Argentina will be a rematch of the 2022 final, adding historical weight. Success would extend France’s modern era dominance and give Mbappé a chance to lift another trophy.

2026 World Cup Schedule (France)

• June 22: France 3–0 Iraq
• July 14: France vs Spain at AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas (Semifinal)
• July 19: France vs Argentina/England at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey (Final, if needed)

Full France Squad

Goalkeepers: Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Robin Risser (Lens), Brice Samba (Rennes)

Defenders: Lucas Digne (Aston Villa), Malo Gusto (Chelsea), L. Hernandez (PSG), T. Hernandez (Al‑Hilal), Ibrahima Konaté (Liverpool), Jules Koundé (Barcelona), Maxence Lacroix (Crystal Palace), William Saliba (Arsenal), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich)

Midfielders: N’Golo Kanté (Fenerbahçe), Manu Koné (Roma), Adrien Rabiot (AC Milan), Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid), Warren Zaïre‑Emery (PSG)

Forwards: Maghnes Akliouche (Monaco), Bradley Barcola (PSG), Rayan Cherki (Manchester City), Ousmane Dembélé (PSG), Désiré Doué (PSG), Jean‑Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace), Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid), Michael Olise (Bayern Munich), Marcus Thuram (Inter)

Watch every World Cup game LIVE with Fubo