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Projected Lineups for France vs. Spain in 2026 World Cup Semifinal at Dallas

The semifinal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature a clash between two top contenders: 2018 champions France, finalists in 2022, and Spain, reigning European champions. The match takes place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Tuesday.

This encounter highlights a budding rivalry between Kylian Mbappe, who shares the World Cup's top scorer title with Lionel Messi, and the young Barcelona talent Lamine Yamal. Mbappe has been prolific in goals and assists for both club and country, yet Yamal has had a strong impact against him in matches involving Barcelona and Spain.

The victor will move on to the final scheduled for Sunday in New Jersey, while the defeated team will contest the third-place game on Saturday. Yellow-card tallies have been reset for the second time, so no player faces suspension for the final unless a red card is received in this match.

France Projected Starting XI (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: 16. Mike MaignanDefense: 5. Jules Kounde, 4. Dayot Upamecano, 17. William Saliba, 3. Lucas DigneMidfield: 8. Aurelien Tchouameni, 14. Adrien RabiotAttack: 7. Ousmane Dembele, 11. Michael Olise, 20. Desire DoueForward: 10. Kylian Mbappe

Tchouameni missed the quarterfinal against Morocco due to a thigh injury but is expected to be available according to reports from Loic Tanzi of L'Equipe. Mbappe also had an ankle issue late in that game but looks fit to start. Coach Didier Deschamps may consider adjusting his attacking setup given Spain’s possession style, possibly replacing one forward with an extra midfielder such as Manu Kone or Warren Zaire-Emery.

Spain Projected Starting XI (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: 23. Unai SimonDefense: 12. Pedro Porro, 22. Pau Cubarsi, 14. Aymeric Laporte, 24. Marc CucurellaMidfield: 16. Rodri, 20. PedriAttack: 19. Lamine Yamal, 10. Dani Olmo, 15. Alex BaenaForward: 21. Mikel Oyarzabal

Spain remains without injury concerns, but winger Nico Williams’ hamstring problems raise doubts about his involvement. He missed the Round of 16 and played only briefly in the quarterfinal. Pedri is expected to return to the starting lineup after being rested in the previous match where Fabian Ruiz took his place but struggled despite scoring.

France vs. Spain Match Prediction

Score forecast: France 2-1 Spain

Where to Watch France vs. Spain

In the United States, the match will air on FOX with streaming options available via fubo, Fox One, and the Fox Sports app or website. Fans might find fubo the best streaming option for watching live.

Other regions have these broadcast details:

  • Canada: TSN1, TSN3, TSN4, TSN5, RDS, CTV; streaming on TSN+, RDS app, and CTV app
  • United Kingdom: ITV1, STV Scotland; streaming on ITVX and STV Player
  • Australia: SBS; streaming on SBS On Demand
  • India: Unite8 Sports 1 & 2; streaming on ZEE5

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