Didier Deschamps has called it as he sees it. The France manager says tonight's World Cup semi-final against Spain has the ingredients for something special — but he is not about to stand in front of cameras and declare his side the team to beat. "My team are NOT favourites," he said ahead of kick-off, shifting the burden of expectation firmly onto Spain's shoulders while quietly preparing his own players for the occasion.
It is a familiar Deschamps trick. Downplay expectations publicly, demand excellence privately. It has worked before — including when he guided France to World Cup glory in 2018 and to the final in 2022. Whether it works again tonight will depend enormously on what Kylian Mbappé is able to produce, after reports confirmed the striker missed part of France's final training session before the game.
The Mbappé Question
Mbappé's physical condition has become the central subplot of France's semi-final preparations. He trained separately from the main group at one point on Tuesday, though French officials moved quickly to downplay concerns. Whether he starts, comes off the bench, or operates at less than full capacity remains the key question mark over a match that France are genuinely capable of winning.
When Mbappé is functioning at 100 percent, he remains the most dangerous attacking player at this tournament. His pace, directness and ability to conjure goals from almost nothing makes him a constant threat that no defence has fully solved. Spain's backline, which has been excellent throughout this competition, will need to be at its very best to contain him.
Spain's Confidence is Sky-High
Spain arrive at this semi-final having been brilliant in stretches and resilient when tested. The fact that Luis de la Fuente's side are being talked about as favourites reflects a broader sense in the football world that this generation of Spanish players — led by Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Mikel Merino — may be something genuinely special.
Merino in particular has emerged as an unexpected hero of Spain's campaign, scoring crucial goals and embodying the kind of quiet, relentless effectiveness that defines this team. He might end up being the difference-maker when Sunday's final rolls around — if Spain get there.
Why This Match Is Too Close to Call
France versus Spain is a meeting of genuine tournament heavyweights. France will look to defend deep, hit Spain on the counter through Mbappé, and use their physical superiority at set pieces. Spain will try to outpass France, keep the ball for extended periods, and drag the French into spaces they do not want to occupy.
It will be spectacular — Deschamps said so himself. France have what it takes to win this. But so do Spain. Tonight should settle it once and for all.
Match context: France vs Spain | 2026 FIFA World Cup Semi-Final | Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid) fitness uncertain; Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) leads Spanish attack.
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