France chasing a third consecutive final
France and Spain go head-to-head in Dallas on Tuesday with a place in the final at stake. The two European heavyweights have regularly crossed paths in recent years and another close contest is expected as they battle for the right to face either England or Argentina.
Match Analysis
France have quietly put together one of the strongest tournaments of any side in North America. Six victories from six matches have carried Les Bleus into a third consecutive semi-final in the tournament, with Deschamps appearing increasingly willing to trust the attacking talent at his disposal during what will be his final tournament in charge.
France have scored 16 goals so far and looked particularly dangerous against Morocco despite Mbappe missing from the penalty spot early in the game. The captain quickly made amends by scoring himself before setting up Dembele to secure victory and continue France’s impressive progress through the knockout rounds.
The attacking relationship between Mbappe and Dembele has become one of the major themes of the tournament, with the pair regularly creating opportunities for one another. France’s experience at this stage of major competitions should not be underestimated either. Les Bleus have won each of their last four semi-finals in this tournament and have not conceded a goal in their previous three appearances at this stage.
Spain, meanwhile, continue to build on the momentum generated by last summer’s European success. La Roja topped Group H before eliminating Austria, Portugal and Belgium to reach the semi-finals, with Merino once again emerging as the unlikely hero after his late winner against the Red Devils.
De la Fuente’s side remain one of the most difficult teams in international football to play against. Their possession-based approach limits opportunities for opponents, while the defensive structure behind the ball has helped Spain remain unbeaten in 36 matches excluding penalty shootouts.
Recent meetings with France also provide encouragement. Spain have won seven of the last ten encounters, including in the summer of 2024 and last year’s NL finals.
With two of the strongest squads in the competition meeting in Dallas, the smallest details could decide who reaches the final.
Team News
France are optimistic that Mbappe will be fit to start despite suffering a minor ankle problem against Morocco.
Kone is expected to recover from his knee issue, while Tchouameni could return after missing recent matches with a thigh injury. Barcola and Doue continue their battle for a place in the starting lineup.
Spain also have decisions to make in attack and midfield. Oyarzabal is expected to continue leading the line, while Nico Williams, Yeremy Pino and Ferran Torres are all competing for places around him.
Merino’s recent impact has increased pressure on the midfield starters, while Pedri is another player pushing for inclusion.
Odds and Tips
Spain may enjoy more possession, but France possess the pace and directness to create problems whenever transitions appear. With both teams carrying excellent form into the semi-finals, extra time would come as no surprise.
Tip: Draw at 3.20.
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Please note that the odds might have changed since the writing and/or publication of this article.
Last updated: 14.07.26
