2026 World Cup: probable line-ups for France – Spain

The semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup provide a prestigious matchup. The Blues meet the Roja in a duel that promises intensity, technical mastery, and contrasting styles. To secure their ticket to the final, the French team should rely on a lineup largely similar to that used in their victory over Morocco (2-0).

Starting in the previous round, Désiré Doué could retain the confidence of the coaching staff and occupy the left offensive flank, ahead of Bradley Barcola. In midfield, the return of Aurélien Tchouaméni is anticipated. Absent from the last two matches due to a thigh injury, the Real Madrid player should reclaim his spot alongside Adrien Rabiot.

In the attacking sector, the trio of Ousmane Dembélé, Michael Olise, and Désiré Doué is expected to support Kylian Mbappé, who is anticipated to be the main threat to the Spanish defense.

La Roja in Continuity

On the other hand, Luis de la Fuente is not expected to disrupt his plans after the qualification achieved against Belgium (2-1) in the quarter-finals. The Spanish coach might field the same starting eleven, with one question mark in midfield: Fabian Ruiz could once again be preferred to Pedri.

Spain will notably rely on its young talents, such as Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo, to unbalance the French block. Rodri will be tasked with regulating the Spanish play while Mikel Oyarzabal is expected to lead the attack.

Probable Lineups

France: Maignan – Koundé, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne – Tchouaméni, Rabiot – Dembélé, Olise, Doué – Mbappé.

Spain: Simon – Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte, Cucurella – Rodri, Ruiz – Yamal, Olmo, Baena – Oyarzabal.