Spain’s Confidence Ahead of World Cup Semifinal Against France

As Spain prepares to face France in the semifinal of the 2026 FIFA men’s World Cup on Tuesday, July 14, confidence levels in the Spanish camp are high. Star winger Lamine Yamal, at 19, has voiced confidence about their ability to challenge France.

“If France should fear anyone, it’s us,” Yamal stated last week. “We have knocked them out before. We have beaten them two times. I believe we are the two best teams at the World Cup, so we’ll see what happens. We do not have any fear.”

Despite scoring only one goal in his debut World Cup, Yamal’s performance shouldn’t be measured by goals alone. Observers need to see him on the ball to truly appreciate his skills. Spain’s manager, Luis de la Fuente, expects Yamal’s standout moment to come soon.

“I’d tell Lamine to stay calm, enjoy the experience, and set aside any anxiety,” de la Fuente expressed on Monday, July 13. “Forget the anxiety. Let him play football as he knows best. The big day for Lamine is yet to come at the World Cup. Hopefully, it’s tomorrow, and if not, in the final, should we advance.”

The pressure to score will be on France, who boast the tournament’s strongest attack, led by Kylian Mbappé. With eight goals in the competition, Mbappé is crucial to France’s offensive prowess. Spain, however, has demonstrated defensive strength, conceding only one goal during the tournament.

While facing France’s lethal attack, Spain’s defensive capabilities will be tested like never before. It’s important to note that France hasn’t conceded a goal since the knockout stage began, making predictions difficult.

This match marks the third significant meeting between the two teams since 2024. Spain emerged victorious in both the 2024 European Championships semifinal and the 2025 Nations League semifinal. Despite past successes, Spain remains alert to France’s improved form.

“France are much better now than when we faced them before,” de la Fuente acknowledged. “Individually, they’ve advanced. Mbappé and [Ousmane] Dembélé are showing improvements. Their team is also better. We have progressed too.”

France aims for a third consecutive World Cup final appearance, having won in 2018 and lost to Argentina in 2022. Spain seeks its first World Cup title since 2010. Argentina and England face off in the other semifinal, marking the first time the top-four FIFA ranked teams reach the semifinals.

The tournament promises an intense finale on Sunday, July 19.