France head coach Didier Deschamps has named Aurelien Tchouameni in the starting lineup for the World Cup semi-final against Spain, despite the midfielder battling a thigh injury. Tchouameni returned to team training after suffering the injury in the last-32 victory over Sweden, and he will partner Adrien Rabiot in midfield. Manu Kone, who sustained a minor knee injury in the quarter-final win against Morocco, misses out.
Mbappe Fit and Leading the Attack
Captain Kylian Mbappe is declared fit after a minor ankle injury picked up against Morocco. He assured reporters post-match that he was “completely fine.” Mbappe’s goal against Morocco, a brilliant strike from the edge of the area, highlighted his ability to decide tight games. He starts alongside Michael Olise and Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele, who have combined for 23 goals in the tournament.
Desire Doue and Bradley Barcola have been rotated on the left wing, with Barcola earning the start. Defenders William Saliba and Dayot Upamecano missed training on Saturday but are both in the lineup. Arsenal’s Saliba was reportedly given a rest day, while Upamecano completed an individual session. Lucas Digne and Jules Kounde are the full-backs, with Mike Maignan in goal.
France’s Defensive Record
France have progressed through the knockout stages past Sweden, Paraguay, and Morocco without conceding a goal. Their solid defense will be tested by a strong Spain side.
France XI: Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Digne; Rabiot, Tchouameni; Dembele, Olise, Barcola; Mbappe.
The match kicks off at 8pm BST today, July 14, at the AT&T Stadium in Texas, and is broadcast on ITV.
