The opening semi final hosts the two countries we would most have expected. France and Spain have arguably been the best two teams at the tournament, with Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele blowing away defences since the outset. Spain have dazzled at times themselves, wiping the floor with Austria while proving their mettle against neighbours Portugal and Belgium.
This is a repeat of the Euro 2024 semi final that Spain won 2-1. This looks an altogether different prospect, with France’s big game players expected to come to the fore.
France vs Spain Match Odds
France are 7/5 favourites to win the match in normal time. Spain are a whole point bigger at odds of 12/5, while the draw can be backed at a high of 9/4.
France vs Spain Tips & Predictions
In the past, France have followed the trajectory that Spain have at the 2026 World Cup. Luis De La Fuente’s side have been the better team in each game they have played, but without ever excelling. The last twice, they have relied on late goals to see off Portugal and a demonstrably inferior Belgium team.
That could be perceived as the hallmark of champions. In 2010, while they had a remarkable squad built on the foundations of La Masia, Spain really won the World Cup because they did not concede goals. That is the case again in 2026, with only Belgium breaching their defence so far.
France are a different matter altogether though. Didier Deschamps’ men have been the best team at the tournament by quite some distance. An off day is possible; they did not play well even in spite of Paraguay’s antics in the last 16, while it took them the best part of an hour to hit full stride in the opening game against Senegal.
However, when they do it is devastating. There is no defence that will intimidate them, and an entirely different clash is expected than in the Euro 2024 semi final. France had been oddly subdued throughout that tournament, but can come alive in the second half here. Spain will do well to match them over 90 minutes, but their solidity can make for a high class semi final.
Our Tips for France vs Spain
France to Win in 90 Minutes @ 13/10
Half Time/Full Time: Draw/France @ 5/1
France 2-1 Spain @ 9/1
France vs Spain Head-To-Head
Spain have the edge in one of the most competitive, longstanding rivalries in international football. La Roja have won 18 of the 38 matches between the two sides, with France claiming 13, though seven of the first eight meetings went to Spain. In more recent times, it has been closer, though Spain have edged the competitive matches, beating Les Bleus at Euro 2012 and Euro 2024.
France vs Spain World Cup Record
France have two World Cup triumphs to Spain’s one, but these are two very successful World Cup nations. France are aiming to make their third straight World Cup final, having been runners up in Qatar four years ago. Spain had not won a knockout match since their 2010 triumph, but having navigated that hurdle, are in form to make a second World Cup final.
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