France and Spain will meet in Dallas on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, to determine the first finalist of the 2026 World Cup. The match kicks off at 8pm BST and will be broadcast live on ITV1 in the UK, with coverage starting at 7pm BST. Viewers can also stream the game via ITVX or follow Standard Sport's live blog. Free highlights will be available on FIFA's official YouTube channel and ITVX.
France Aim for Third Consecutive Final
Didier Deschamps' side are contesting their third straight World Cup semi-final and hope to reach a third consecutive final. They have swept aside all challengers so far, beating Sweden, Paraguay, and Morocco in the knockout stages without conceding a goal. Kylian Mbappe, the joint-top scorer at the tournament, was substituted in the quarter-final against Morocco with a minor ankle sprain but declared himself "completely fine" after the match. Manu Kone was also withdrawn as a precaution with a knee issue and is expected to be available.
Aurelien Tchouameni, who missed the Morocco tie with a thigh injury, has returned to full team training. William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano were absent from Saturday's session but are not believed to have serious issues—Saliba was resting, and Upamecano trained indoors. Desire Doue is expected to continue in attack alongside Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Michael Olise, though Deschamps has rotated between Doue and Bradley Barcola on the left wing.
Spain Seek First Final Since 2010
Spain are in the World Cup semi-finals for the first time since winning the tournament in 2010. They advanced with narrow wins over Portugal and Belgium, both secured by late goals from Arsenal's Mikel Merino, and a 3-0 victory over Austria in the round of 32. Attackers Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino are available after mid-tournament injuries, while new Liverpool winger Victor Munoz is also nearing fitness. Lamine Yamal, despite not matching his Euro 2024 heights, remains undroppable.
Head-to-Head and Prediction
In 38 previous meetings, France have won 13, Spain 18, with 7 draws. The match is expected to be tight, but France's attacking quality—dynamic and inventive—gives them the edge. A 3-1 victory for Les Bleus is predicted. Odds from UK betting sites: France to win 13/10, Spain to win 23/10, draw 9/4. Gambling responsibly is advised; help is available from BeGambleAware or Gamcare.
