France vs Spain Prediction, Team News, Lineups & H2H | World Cup 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 delivers another blockbuster encounter on Tuesday as France take on Spain in a highly anticipated semi-final clash at AT&T Stadium in Dallas.

With a coveted place in the World Cup final on the line, two of Europe's football powerhouses will battle for supremacy in what promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament. The winner will advance to the final to face either England or Argentina.

France are aiming to reach a historic third consecutive FIFA World Cup final, while reigning European champions Spain are chasing their first appearance in the tournament's showpiece match since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010.

France is targeting a historic third straight World Cup final.

France have once again underlined why they are among the favourites to win the World Cup. Didier Deschamps' side have been flawless so far, winning all six matches to finish top of Group I before eliminating Sweden, Paraguay and Morocco in the knockout rounds.

Les Bleus have scored 16 goals during the tournament, showcasing one of the most dangerous attacks in the competition.

In the quarter-finals, France defeated Morocco 2-0 thanks to an inspired performance from captain Kylian Mbappe. After missing an early penalty, the Real Madrid star responded in style by scoring the opening goal before setting up Ousmane Dembele to wrap up the victory.

With Mbappe, Dembele, Michael Olise and Desire Doue providing pace, creativity and clinical finishing, France possess one of the strongest attacking units left in the tournament.

Tuesday's clash will also be another historic occasion for head coach Didier Deschamps, who is set to manage his 26th FIFA World Cup match, breaking the long-standing record held by Germany legend Helmut Schön.

History is also on France's side. Les Bleus have won each of their last four World Cup semi-finals and kept clean sheets in their previous three victories at this stage.

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Spain aiming to continue remarkable tournament form

Spain arrive in Dallas with equally impressive momentum after another outstanding campaign under Luis de la Fuente.

La Roja finished top of Group H before overcoming Austria, Portugal and Belgium to secure their place in the semi-finals.

Midfielder Mikel Merino has emerged as Spain's unlikely hero, scoring decisive goals against Portugal and Belgium after coming off the bench.

Since taking charge, De la Fuente has transformed Spain into one of international football's most consistent teams, blending defensive discipline with attacking flair.

The reigning European champions have suffered just one defeat in their last 27 matches at major tournaments and have recorded nine clean sheets during that period.

Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal continues to shine on the biggest stage and will once again be Spain's biggest attacking threat alongside Dani Olmo, Rodri and Mikel Oyarzabal.

France vs Spain head-to-head record

France and Spain have shared one of international football's fiercest rivalries, producing several memorable encounters over the years.

Overall head-to-head

• Matches played: 38

• Spain wins: 18

• France wins: 13

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• Draws: 7

France won the only previous FIFA World Cup meeting between the two nations, defeating Spain 3-1.

However, recent meetings have favoured Spain. La Roja have won seven of their last 10 matches against France, including victories in the UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final and the UEFA Nations League final.

Predicted lineups

France predicted XI

Mike Maignan, Jules Kounde, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, Lucas Digne, Aurelien Tchouameni, Adrien Rabiot, Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Desire Doue, and Kylian Mbappe.

Spain predicted XI

Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian Ruiz; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Alex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal.

France vs Spain prediction

This semi-final has all the ingredients to become one of the matches of the tournament.

France possess explosive pace, world-class attackers and vast experience on the biggest stage. Spain, meanwhile, boasts excellent midfield control, tactical discipline and one of the most exciting young squads in world football.

While Kylian Mbappe has the ability to decide any match with a moment of brilliance, Spain's balance across the pitch and their recent dominance against France could prove decisive.

Expect a closely contested battle, but Spain's control in midfield and attacking efficiency may ultimately make the difference.

Prediction: France 1-2 Spain

Spain are tipped to edge a thrilling contest and book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.