Madrid turns red as Spain fans gear up for France World Cup semi-final | OneFootball

Madrid turned red on Tuesday as Spain supporters filled the streets ahead of their World Cup semi-final against France at 21:00.

According to L'Équipe, those hoping to see Kylian Mbappé lift the World Cup must wait until Sunday, yet the capital has already enjoyed a dress rehearsal since the morning. Outside Gran Via metro, a performer in a Mbappé mask and France captain’s kit hoisted a replica trophy, drawing coins and smiles.

A short walk confirms the game is on every mind, with Seleccion shirts everywhere, red and white alongside Adidas’s reissued 1994 vintage.

In Adidas’s city-centre flagship, the Real Madrid section sat unusually quiet while shirts of Lamine Yamal and team-mates were snapped up hours before what would be Spanish football’s second World Cup semi-final.

Four 18-year-olds, Luis, David, Gonzalo and Marcos, planned to buy an air horn and a plastic trumpet to be ready. Gonzalo said they were preparing to celebrate because he expects Spain to win, calling it a special moment after 16 years. Luis felt Spain are playing much better than France and predicted a calm 2-0, adding they have no fear.

Alan, visiting with his family, had scouted Plaza de Colon and planned to watch there at the city’s biggest screen, part of a fan zone with activities. He thought many see France as favourites but believed Spain can do it, forecasting a tense match that could go to extra time. Across Madrid, the hope is for a very long night.

Source: L'Équipe