France Coach Didier Deschamps Labels Spain as Favourites Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-final

France head coach Didier Deschamps has described Spain as the favourites ahead of their highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, despite France’s dominant performances throughout the tournament.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference in Dallas, Deschamps acknowledged Spain’s consistency and balance, insisting that the European champions have justified their status as one of the strongest teams in the competition.

“Forget about their opening draw against Cape Verde. Since then, Spain have shown why they are considered favourites,” Deschamps said. “They are equally strong in attack and defence, having conceded just one goal in their last several matches.”

France and Spain will face off at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, in what is expected to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament. While France have impressed with their explosive attacking football, Spain have relied on tactical discipline, ball control, and defensive solidity to reach the last four.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente played down the favourites tag, saying external opinions would have no impact on his team's mindset.

“Whether people call us favourites or not doesn’t change anything,” De la Fuente said. “The pressure is already there because we want to perform well for our country.”

Deschamps believes the semi-final has all the ingredients of a memorable contest, highlighting the attacking quality on both sides.

“With the offensive talent both teams possess, this has the potential to be a spectacular game,” he said.

The French coach also acknowledged the threat posed by Spanish teenager Lamine Yamal, who has troubled France in previous encounters. However, Deschamps expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to deal with the challenge.

“Yamal is one of the players who can make a real difference, but we also have many players capable of doing the same,” he added.

Providing a major boost for France, Deschamps confirmed that captain Kylian Mbappe is fully fit despite suffering a knock during the quarter-final victory over Morocco.

With a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final on the line, the clash between France and Spain promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in one of international football’s biggest rivalries.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, News Setu makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the content. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk.