World Cup preview: Olise's France vye for final berth with Spain | OneFootball

As we enter the business end of the 2026 World Cup with only four nations remaining, the first of the semi-final ties sees France take on Spain. Both powerhouses of the European game were rightfully amongst the bookies' favourites before the tournament got going.

France have been arguably the standard setters in the World Cup to date, blending defensive solidity with high-octane attacking football. Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano has been one of their shining lights alongside William Saliba in the back four.

Moving into the middle third, former Borussia Mönchengladbach talent Manu Koné has deputised for Aurelien Tchouameni. Bayern Munich's Michael Olise continues to pull the strings from a central position, while ex-BVB star Ousmane Dembélé compliments Kylian Mbappé nicely. 

Spain, by contrast, have been a fraction underwhelming in an attacking sense. Nonetheless, they continue to march forth with their strong defensive discipline proving to be the backbone of their success – they leaked their only goal to Belgium thus far.

Although their talisman Lamine Yamal has been quiet by his lofty standards, the winger showed signs of improvement in their quarter final success. Meanwhile, former Dortmund man Mikel Merino continues to deliver game-defining goals off the bench as of late.

Another name looking to up his game for the European champions from 2024 is Dani Olmo. The midfielder, formerly of RB Leipzig, will hope to feed their top goal-scorer Mikel Oyarzabal repeatedly. The game may even present ex-Leverkusen star Alex Grimaldo with a chance to shine off the bench. 

Team news:

Kylian Mbappé limped off at the tail end of their quarter-final win over Morocco, but should overcome acute ankle pain and be fit to start. Manu Koné was also subbed off, but it sounds like that was a precautionary decision. Aurelien Tchouameni is also available again.

Similar to Les Blues, Spain will be glad that Nico Williams got some valuable minutes on the field against Belgium. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace winger Yeremy Pino has also returned from a knock and will hope to fill into the bench tonight for De La Fuente's side. 

Predicted lineups:

To see our predicted lineups for the semi-final clash, please click the link here.