- Kylian Mbappe is set to lead France's attack alongside Michael Olise in the World Cup semifinal.
- Lamine Yamal headlines Spain's expected starting XI in a blockbuster clash against France.
- Check the predicted lineups, team news and expected formations ahead of the France vs Spain showdown.
The Kylian Mbappe vs Lamine Yamal rivalry will once again take centre stage as France lock horns against Spain in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final. With a place in the final at stake, both European giants will leave no stone unturned in what promises to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament.
Didier Deschamps' Les Bleus head into the clash as slight favourites after a disciplined run through the knockout stages. However, Luis de la Fuente's Spain have impressed throughout the competition with their brilliant attacking football and dominant possession-based approach, making them a dangerous opponent.
Spain will once again rely on Rodri to dictate the tempo in midfield, while Pedri and Dani Olmo will look to exploit spaces between the lines. At the other end, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal will be expected to provide the spark on the right flank against France's experienced backline.
France vs Spain Team News
France’s camp will be motivated after Kylian Mbappe was declared fit despite concerns over an ankle issue in the quarter-final. Michael Olise is expected to retain his place in the starting lineup following his impressive displays, while Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue are likely to support Mbappe in attack.
Spain, meanwhile, have no major injury concerns heading into the semi-final. Luis de la Fuente is expected to stick with the same core that has guided La Roja into the last four, with Rodri, Pedri and Dani Olmo continuing in midfield and Lamine Yamal leading the attack alongside Mikel Oyarzabal and Alex Baena.
France vs Spain Predicted Lineups
Spain Predicted Starting XI (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Unai Simon
Defenders: Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella
Midfielders: Rodri, Pedri, Dani Olmo
Forwards: Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, Alex Baena
France Predicted Starting XI (4-2-3-1):
Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
Defenders: Jules Kounde, Dayot Upamecano, William Saliba, Lucas Digne
Midfielders: Aurelien Tchouameni, Adrien Rabiot
Attacking Midfielders: Ousmane Dembele, Michael Olise, Desire Doue
Forward: Kylian Mbappe
With world-class talent spread across both squads, the semi-final is expected to be decided by the finest of margins.
While France will depend on Mbappe's pace and attacking quality, Spain will hope Yamal and their midfield trio can control the game and guide La Roja into the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.
