France XI vs Spain: Predicted lineup, team news, injury latest for World Cup semi-final

France are sweating over the fitness of two key midfielders ahead of their World Cup semi-final clash with Spain on Tuesday night. Didier Deschamps' side have progressed through the knockout stages without conceding a goal, but injuries to Aurelien Tchouameni and Manu Kone threaten to disrupt their preparations.

Midfield concerns

Tchouameni has returned to team training after a thigh injury sustained in the last-32 win over Sweden. Kone, meanwhile, was forced off in the second half of the quarter-final victory against Morocco with a minor knee problem. Both are in a race to be fit, with the decision on who partners Adrien Rabiot at the base of midfield yet to be confirmed.

Captain Kylian Mbappe suffered a minor ankle injury against Morocco but assured reporters post-match he was "completely fine". Mbappe's opener in that game was a brilliant strike from the edge of the area, underscoring his ability to decide tight matches.

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Attack in form

France's front three of Mbappe, Michael Olise, and Ballon d'Or-winning forward Ousmane Dembele have contributed 23 goals between them at the 2026 World Cup. Their interplay has elevated Les Bleus above other teams in the tournament. Desire Doue and Bradley Barcola have been rotated on the left wing by Deschamps, while Kone and Rabiot have provided a solid defensive platform.

Defensive stability

William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano missed training on Saturday, causing slight concern, but both are expected to be available. Arsenal's Saliba was reportedly given a rest day, while Upamecano undertook an individual session. Lucas Digne and Jules Kounde are cemented at full-back, with Mike Maignan in goal.

The team is unlikely to change much, despite options off the bench like Manchester City's Rayan Cherki, Maghnes Akliouche, and Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who have barely featured.