Didier Deschamps has placed Spain as the clear favorite for the first semi-final of the 2026 World Cup, scheduled for Tuesday in Arlington, United States. The French coach highlighted the quality and balance of the Spanish team, admitting that France is prepared for an intense battle. “I confirm that Spain is the favorite. Aside from the first game against Cape Verde, the others confirmed what I said. This is not to put pressure on Luis de la Fuente and his team,” stated the coach of the world runners-up at the press conference.
Deschamps highlighted the defensive rigor and offensive capability of the Spaniards, who have conceded only one goal in six matches. “Spain wants the ball, and if they have only conceded one goal, it's because opponents have difficulty maintaining possession. We also prioritize possession, and there will be a fierce contest,” he added, dismissing speculation about a possible revenge for Euro 2024. The French coach also revealed that the match has special significance, as it will take place on July 14, France's National Day. “It is a symbolic day for France, for the French people. We know what our objective is, even if Spain wants it too, which is to reach the final. We will not settle for just the semi-final.”
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O MUNDIAL 2026 VIVE-SE COM A LEGO
Regarding the physical condition of forward Kylian Mbappé, Deschamps assured that the captain is in top form: “Kylian is doing well. He is at 100%.” French midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery, from Paris Saint-Germain, also spoke before the press conference, highlighting his teammate's extra motivation for the match. “We all know Kylian. He is a top-level player. He has been named MVP three times and performs very well in these situations. He doesn’t like to lose to Spain, he doesn’t want to lose to the Spanish national team, and he will do everything possible to win. And, as a team, we know very well the plan we need to follow to win the game,” he assured.
Zaire-Emery also dismissed provocations from the Spanish side, particularly the statements made by Lamine Yamal, who suggested that France should “be afraid” of Spain. “We are France and we are not afraid of anyone. The rest is just talk that happens in football, but it doesn't make sense. The game is tomorrow, not on social media or in the press,” said the midfielder, who praised the talent of the young Spanish winger but emphasized that the opponent's danger lies in their collective quality. “They have 11 starters and great substitutes, a world-class team in every position.”
France seeks to avenge its elimination in the semi-finals of the last Euro, where Spain triumphed 2-1. Zaire-Emery highlighted the differences in style between the teams, contrasting Spain's ball possession with the speed and physical strength of the French. “We are a young team, but with experienced and mature players who have already played in important big games. And we are used to this type of match. We will do everything possible to reach the final.”
The first semi-final of the 2026 World Cup between France and Spain promises to be an epic clash between two teams of great tradition and talent, with the winner securing a place in the final. The second semi-final features England against Argentina, the reigning champions, on Wednesday in Atlanta.
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