Lamine Yamal says Spain will test France in World Cup semi‑final

Spain’s 18‑year‑old winger Lamine Yamal entered the media ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi‑final in Dallas, declaring that his team “has no fear” of France and that “if anyone should be afraid, it is them”. He cited Spain’s recent knockout victories over France in Euro 2024 and the Nations League, and his own Player‑of‑the‑Match award in the 2‑1 quarter‑final win over Belgium.

Yamal’s remarks were echoed in several Spanish, English, French and Bulgarian outlets, each noting his confidence and the historic head‑to‑head record (two wins for Spain, none for France). French side France arrived with concerns over injuries to Kylian Mbappé’s ankle and the absence of central defenders Upamecano and Saliba, while France coach Didier Deschamps stressed the need to stay focused.

The match, scheduled for Tuesday, July 14 at AT&T Stadium, pits Spain’s solid defence – six clean‑sheet games so far – against France’s potent attack led by Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise. Both teams view the game as a decisive step toward the final.