Spain will meet France in the 2026 World Cup semi-final in Dallas on July 14 after defeating Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-final, sealed by Mikel Merino's 88th-minute goal. France advanced by beating Morocco 2-0 on July 9.
Lamine Yamal, who turns 19 on the eve of the match, struck a defiant tone, arguing France should fear Spain given that Spain eliminated them from Euro 2024 and have won their last two meetings. He added that personal milestones matter less than team success, noting he won Euro 2024 with only one goal.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente described France as one of the tournament's best sides but pledged Spain would compete to win. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe leads the Golden Boot race with eight goals and three assists.