Spain Takes on France in 2026 World Cup Semifinal

Team Formations and Recent Performance

France enters the knockout stage riding a confident run, having dispatched Morocco 2‑0 in the quarterfinals. Kylian Mbappé leads the attack with eight goals already logged this tournament. The French side also boasts a solid defensive record that helped them secure a berth in the semifinals.

Spain is aiming for a second men’s World Cup title, the first since 2010. While Lamine Yamal’s only goal so far came in the opening group match, the squad found consistency through late‑game strikes by Mikel Merino. Merino’s decisive finishes in two separate fixtures propelled La Roja into the last four.

Historical Head‑to‑Head Narrative

France and Spain have clashed 11 times, with Spain holding a 7‑3 edge and one draw to their credit. The most memorable clashes include France’s 3‑1 victory in the 2006 World Cup round of 16. A decade later, Spain turned the tables with a 2‑1 win in the 2024 European Championship semifinals, eventually lifting that tournament’s trophy.

This past rivalry adds texture to the upcoming encounter, as both nations seek to rewrite their modern story in Dallas.

How to Watch the Semifinal

• Spanish language broadcast: Telemundo or Peacock will carry the game for Spanish‑speaking audiences.

Match Details and Implications

The semifinal between France and Spain is slated for 3 p.m. ET on Tuesday, July 14, at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. Both sides are vying for different milestones—France for a third World Cup crown, Spain for their second ever men’s title. The outcome will set up the remaining slot in the final, shaping the tournament’s climax.

A win would not only fulfill a deep‑seated ambition for each nation but also amplify their momentum heading into the final weeks of the 2026 campaign.