France and Spain face off in Tuesday’s World Cup semi-final, with Les Bleus chasing a third title and La Roja seeking only their second crown, as Didier Deschamps prepares to step down after 14 years in charge.
France have reached the last two World Cup finals, winning in 2018 before losing to Argentina in 2022 despite Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick. Mbappe heads into the encounter with eight goals, level with Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race.
Spain, who began with a goalless draw against Cape Verde, have since gained momentum and conceded only one goal throughout the tournament. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who turned 19 on Monday, believes Spain have a psychological edge having beaten France in the Euro 2024 semi-finals and a 2025 Nations League clash. Deschamps insisted Spain enter as favourites.
Key Points:
Football fans worldwide anticipate a high-stakes clash between two European giants.
Mbappe’s Golden Boot race against Messi adds individual intrigue to the semi-final.
Deschamps’ farewell tour adds emotional weight to France’s campaign.
Spain’s defensive discipline and possession style pose a unique challenge to France.
Timing of the match, with Deschamps’ departure looming, heightens the drama.
The winner will face either Argentina or England in Sunday’s final, with Mbappe potentially chasing a second World Cup crown.


