France and Spain meet in a blockbuster World Cup 2026 semi-final, matching the two best teams at the tournament so far against each other.

France have dazzled with their attacking play, led by Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise. Meanwhile, Spain have conceded only one goal as the European champions aim to win back-to-back major tournaments.

Spain defeated France in a thrilling Euro 2024 semi-final two years ago, a match where Lamine Yamal became the youngest goalscorer in European Championship history. Yamal turned 19 on Monday and, while he has yet to truly arrive at this tournament, the Barcelona star may still have a decisive say.

Real Madrid’s Mbappe continues his quest for a third consecutive World Cup final and a second title. The captain of the 2022 World Cup runners-up has scored eight goals, placing him at the top of the Golden Boot race alongside Argentina’s Lionel Messi, who faces England in the other semi-final on Wednesday.

Mbappe scored a stunning goal in France’s routine 2-0 victory over a subdued Morocco in the quarter-finals. Spain defeated Belgium thanks to a late goal from Mikel Merino, setting up what head coach Luis de la Fuente described as the “final before the final”.

When is France v Spain and how to watch?

The World Cup semi-final kicks off at 8pm BST on Tuesday 14 July at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Broadcasters will show the match live on ITV 1 and STV 1 in the UK, as well as via ITV X. Coverage begins at 7pm BST.

What is the France v Spain team news?

Kylian Mbappe left the pitch towards the end of France’s 2-0 win over Morocco but confirmed afterwards that he sustained no injury. Midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has missed France’s last two matches, with Manu Kone filling his spot. Kone also left the field late against Morocco but should remain fit to start. Didier Deschamps faces only one other selection choice: whether to start Bradley Barcola or Desire Doue on the left.

Spain report no suspensions and received a boost with Nico Williams returning to the pitch for the closing stages of their late win over Belgium. Mikel Merino likely retains his super-sub role, despite scoring winners off the bench in both the last-16 and quarter-finals. Fabian Ruiz and Dani Olmo may continue alongside Rodri in midfield, which would keep Pedri on the bench.

Confirmed line-ups

France XI: Maignan; Digne, Upamecano, Kounde, Saliba; Tchouameni, Rabiot; Dembele, Mbappe, Olise, Barcola

Spain XI: Unai Simon; Porro, Laporte, Cubarsi, Cucurella; Fabian Ruiz, Baena, Rodri; Olmo, Yamal. Oyarzabal