France and Spain Face Off in 2026 World Cup Semi-Final at AT&T Stadium
On Tuesday, AT&T Stadium will host a major 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final between France and Spain. France aims to join an elite group by reaching their third straight World Cup final. They come in as favorites after winning all six of their matches without extra time or penalties.
In the quarter-finals, Ousmane Dembele and top scorer Kylian Mbappe scored to give Didier Deschamps’ side a 2-0 victory over Morocco. Meanwhile, Spain scraped through against Belgium with a late goal from substitute Mikel Merino, sealing a 2-1 win. Luis de la Fuente’s team is just one match away from their first final since 2010, but stopping France’s strong run will be a tough challenge.
A Dominant French Side
Deschamps’ team has been impressive. They won all three Group I games with a combined 10-2 score and have kept clean sheets in every knockout match so far, except for Paraguay limiting their scoring. France leads the tournament with 16 goals, half of which come from Mbappe. This will be their eighth World Cup semi-final appearance.
Still, France must stay sharp. Spain has historically been difficult for them—they have lost eight of their last ten meetings against La Roja. This semi-final will also mark Deschamps’ 26th World Cup match as coach, making him the most experienced in tournament history.
Spain's Revival Under De la Fuente
Since their 2010 triumph, Spain struggled in knockout rounds until this World Cup, where they defeated Austria 3-0 in the round of 32. De la Fuente, who guided Spain to the 2024 European Championship title, has maintained an unbeaten record in major tournaments (12 wins, 1 draw). His team relies on a solid defense that has conceded only once in six World Cup games.
Spain remains unbeaten in regulation time over their last 36 internationals. This is their second semi-final since 2010, and historically, they have advanced from six of their last seven semi-finals in big tournaments. Attention will be on Barcelona's young talent Lamine Yamal, who could be a game-changer if he hits his stride.
Team News and Line-ups
Mbappe left the game early against Morocco due to injury but is expected to start. Spain has a full squad available, including Pedri, who showed signs of fatigue late in their quarter-final.
France (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Kone, Rabiot; Dembele, Olise, Doue; Mbappe.
Spain (4-2-3-1): Simon; Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian; Yamal, Olmo, Baena; Oyarzabal.
Match Prediction
Spain approaches the match close to matching Argentina’s record for consecutive games unbeaten in regulation time. Yet, France looks unstoppable currently. It won’t be easy, but France’s depth and skill make them likely to reach another World Cup final.
