All eyes will be on FIFA World Cup 2026 as Spain prepare to face France in a mouthwatering semi-final. The two European heavyweights will battle for a place in the final, with Spain looking to continue their impressive run after dramatically eliminating Portugal and Belgium.

While many believe Spain enters the contest with the psychological advantage after defeating France in both UEFA Euro 2024 and the UEFA Nations League 2025, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has refused to get carried away. The experienced Spanish manager insists that labels such as ‘favourites’ or ‘underdogs’ will have little impact once the action begins at Dallas Stadium.

Young sensation Lamine Yamal also appeared relaxed despite the magnitude of the occasion. The Barcelona winger admitted it would be the biggest game of his career but expressed confidence that it could become a special night for Spain.

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What Luis de la Fuente Said Before Facing France

The latest Luis de la Fuente Statement reflected the calm approach Spain have carried throughout the tournament. The coach stated that he has encouraged Yamal to enjoy the occasion rather than feel burdened by expectations.

"I told him to stay calm and enjoy it. Lamine Yamal's big day is still to come at this World Cup. I hope it's tomorrow or in the final, if we qualify," De la Fuente told reporters.

Speaking about the challenge of reaching a World Cup semi-final, the Spain boss admitted the occasion is special but stressed that his players must embrace it.

"Playing in the World Cup semi-final – after all the World Cups I've watched on television – now we're the ones in the spotlight. We've never shirked the responsibility that this entails. We know what we represent, but we mustn't let that responsibility make us nervous," he added.

De la Fuente also dismissed suggestions that Spain being labelled favourites would create extra pressure.

"Since the beginning, I've always said that the fact people say we're favourites or not doesn't mean anything. It isn't decisive."

The Spanish coach’s reaction underlined his belief that his side must simply focus on their own strengths rather than outside opinions.

Why Spain Are Being Called Favourites

Spain have arguably been the standout side of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after recovering from their opening setback against Cape Verde. Since then, they have produced composed displays, defeating strong opponents and showing resilience with late winners against Portugal in the Round of 16 and Belgium in the quarter-finals.

France Coach's Remark Sparks Debate

France manager Didier Deschamps also acknowledged Spain's outstanding form ahead of the blockbuster Spain vs France encounter.

"Forget about the first game against Cape Verde. Ever since then, Spain have confirmed that they are the favourites," Deschamps remarked.

He added, "Spain can attack well, and they can defend very well. They've only conceded one goal in the last six or seven matches."

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Spain vs France Head-to-Head Record

The Spain France Rivalry has intensified over the past few years. Spain defeated France in the UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final before overcoming Les Bleus again in the UEFA Nations League. Those victories have given La Roja confidence heading into another high-profile clash.

However, France, led by Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise, remain one of the strongest teams in world football.

Total Matches: 38
Spain Wins: 18
France Wins: 13
Draws: 7

With a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final at stake, another memorable chapter in the Spain vs France rivalry is set to unfold.