France and Spain set for World Cup 2026 semi‑final showdown
The FIFA World Cup 2026 semi‑final between France and Spain will be played on 14 July at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The winner advances to the final for a chance at the record‑breaking $50 million prize, while the loser will still receive $33 million out of a total $727 million prize pool.
France, the 2018 champions, are targeting a third consecutive final. Coach Didier Deschamps confirmed that Kylian Mbappé, who missed a full training drill after an ankle injury in the quarter‑final, is “fine” and available. France also rely on a collective defensive press and strong off‑field unity, with players analysing matches in small groups.
Spain, led by 19‑year‑old winger Lamine Yamal, seek to become the first nation to hold both the world and European titles simultaneously. Yamal, celebrating his birthday before the match, rebuffed a racist comment from former prime minister Mariano Rajoy and stressed integration through football. He expressed confidence but warned “no special plan” will be made against him, focusing on Spain’s team play.
Betting markets list France at +135 and Spain at +231, reflecting the close contest. Both sides have highlighted key players – France’s Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, Spain’s Yamal and Pedri – as potential match‑deciders.