Spain, France set for blockbuster FIFA World Cup semifinal showdown

WEB DESK: Spain’s impressive unbeaten run will face its toughest test when they take on defending champions France in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup semifinal, with both sides aiming to book a place in Sunday’s final.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente described the clash in Arlington, Texas, as a “final before the final,” as two of the world’s strongest teams meet in one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures.

The semifinal features two of FIFA’s highest-ranked nations, with France occupying the top spot and Spain ranked third. Argentina and England, who meet in the other semifinal, complete the first-ever World Cup last four featuring the world’s top four-ranked teams.

Spain arrive in the semifinal on the back of a remarkable 36-match unbeaten run, recording 27 wins and nine draws since their last defeat against Colombia in March 2024.

Victory over France would move Spain a step closer to matching Italy’s all-time unbeaten record.

Midfielder Rodri expressed confidence ahead of the encounter, pointing to Spain’s recent victories over France in the 2025 UEFA Nations League semifinal and the UEFA Euro 2024 semifinal, where Spain eventually lifted the trophy.

“France are one of the best teams here, in great form, but so are we,” Rodri said. “We can beat them.”

France, meanwhile, are seeking to reach a third consecutive FIFA World Cup final after winning the tournament in 2018 and finishing runners-up to Argentina in 2022.

Forward Kylian Mbappe said the defending champions remained focused on securing another place in the final, stressing that the team could not afford to relax despite their recent success.

The semifinal is also expected to showcase a fascinating duel between France captain Mbappe and Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who celebrated his 19th birthday during the tournament.

Mbappe is among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot with eight goals, level with Argentina captain Lionel Messi, while England’s Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham remain in contention with six goals each.

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Spain’s attacking threat has been shared across the squad, with Mikel Oyarzabal leading the team’s scoring charts with four goals, while Mikel Merino has made decisive contributions off the bench in consecutive matches.

Although Yamal has scored only once during the tournament, the young forward has impressed with his creativity and playmaking ability, earning the player of the match award in Spain’s quarterfinal victory over Belgium.

With Spain’s consistency and unbeaten momentum set to collide with France’s experience and championship pedigree, the semifinal promises to be one of the standout contests of the FIFA World Cup.