France vs Spain: 2026 World Cup Semi‑Final Legends

Les Bleus host La Roja on Tuesday, July 14, in the 2026 World Cup semi‑finals. The fixture carries added weight because France lost a 2‑1 decision to Spain at Euro 2024 just two years ago. Coach Didier Deschamps’ side will look to avenge that defeat and advance one step closer to the final. The match also revives memories of the last World Cup clash between the nations, a fixture that took place 20 years ago in Germany.

France Starting XI

Spain Starting XI

Historical Context

The rivalry between France and Spain stretches beyond the upcoming clash, tracing back to the 2006 World Cup in Germany. In that tournament’s round of 16, La Roja hoped to see Zinedine Zidane retire, but the French captain instead netted a decisive goal in a 3‑1 victory. Fast forward two years, the Euro 2024 semi‑final saw Spain edge France 2‑1, a loss that still lingers in Lyon’s dressing rooms. This July showdown on the pitch in Qatar will serve as an opportunity for Les Bleus to erase that recent disappointment while Spain aims to keep its World Cup momentum alive. Fans can expect a match charged with revenge, skill, and the kind of drama that defines modern soccer.