Alex Baena confident as Spain eye World Cup semifinal vs France

Spain forward Álex Baena says he has returned to enjoying football after overcoming early‑season injuries at Atlético de Madrid. He has started five matches in the World Cup and expects to feature in the semifinal against France.

Baena noted that the French side will launch a very attacking game, highlighting “Kylian, Dembélé, Olise, Barcola” as the main threats. He added that Spain will aim to keep possession and minimise errors, hoping for “many goals, like the 5‑4 Nations League semifinal”.

He praised teammate Lamine Yamal, calling him “easy to play with because of his talent”, and described the upcoming match as a “final anticipada” – a chance for Spain to prove itself. Baena’s interview also featured his Spanish quote, “Vuelvo a disfrutar dentro del campo”, reflecting his renewed confidence ahead of the decisive clash.