Jul 11, Kathmandu - The first semifinal match of the 2026 World Cup has been finalized. Next Tuesday, France and Spain will compete in Dallas, USA, for a spot in the final.

This time, France is considered slightly stronger than Spain. France secured their semifinal spot by maintaining pressure on Morocco, while Spain had to fight until the very end against Belgium.

Since the tournament began, France has appeared to be the most balanced and formidable team. However, Spanish young star Lamine Yamal confidently stated, “If anyone can stop France, it’s Spain.”

After their victory over Belgium, Yamal told reporters, “No team in this World Cup has been able to play us head-on. Most teams focus solely on defense against us. That makes it a bit difficult to attack their goal. But ultimately, the victory is ours. I believe if France has to be afraid of any team, it’s us. We sent France home in the 2024 World Cup. We are both top teams in this tournament. The game between the two on the field is yet to be seen, but we are not at all afraid of France.”

Looking at recent history, Spain has dominated their last two encounters with France. Spain defeated France 2-1 in the 2024 Euro semifinals, and in the 2025 Nations League semifinals, they triumphed in a thrilling 5-4 match.

The semifinal promises an exciting showdown as two top football powerhouses prepare to clash in Dallas.