Deschamps tips Spain as favourites ahead of World Cup semifinal clash with France
By Joel Masibo, July 14, 2026France head coach Didier Deschamps has identified Spain as the leading contender to lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy as his side prepares to face the European champions in Tuesday’s, July 14, 2026, semifinal.
Addressing reporters before the highly anticipated encounter, Deschamps said Spain had recovered strongly after its slow start to the tournament.
“Forget about their match against Cabo Verde,” Deschamps told a pre-match news conference, referring to Spain’s goalless draw in its opening group game. “Since then, they have shown they are the favorites to win the World Cup.”
Spanish system of play
The French tactician praised Spain’s balanced style of play, highlighting both its attacking quality and defensive discipline.
“Spain is capable of playing outstanding attacking football while remaining very solid defensively. They have conceded just one goal in their last six matches,” he added.
Deschamps also provided encouraging news regarding captain Kylian Mbappe, who suffered an ankle injury during France’s quarterfinal victory over Morocco before being substituted.
“He trained today,” Deschamps said.
He further confirmed that midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni is fit again after missing France’s previous two matches because of injury.
Spain has eliminated France in the semifinals of both UEFA Euro 2024 and the 2025 UEFA Nations League, but Deschamps insisted those previous encounters would have little bearing on Tuesday’s showdown.
“There are no particular lessons to draw from those matches,” he said. “The squads have changed, and the players are not necessarily at the same stage of their development or in the same form as they were then.”
On the Spanish bench, coach Luis de la Fuente believes the current French side is stronger than the teams his players overcame in recent years.
“Players like Mbappe are more mature now,” De la Fuente said. “The same applies to our players. Over the past two years they have continued to grow, both technically and through the experience they have gained.”
De la Fuente’s view
Despite Deschamps describing Spain as tournament favorites, De la Fuente dismissed the label, saying it would have no influence on what happens on the pitch.
“I’ve said from the very beginning that whether people regard us as favorites is irrelevant,” he said with a smile. “It has no real meaning and certainly won’t determine the outcome. Outside expectations don’t create any extra pressure for us.”
He also stressed that Spain had thoroughly studied its opponents ahead of the semifinal.
“We have analysed France in great detail. We’ve faced each other many times and know each other very well,” he added. “They have world-class players, and so do we. We will fight to win the duels, take the initiative and stay true to our football.”
Monday, July 13, 2026, also coincided with the 19th birthday of Spanish winger Lamine Yamal. De la Fuente revealed he had advised the young star to remain relaxed, enjoy the occasion and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on himself.
“I believe his moment will come,” De la Fuente said. “Hopefully it will be tomorrow. If not, then hopefully in the final.”
Yamal, meanwhile, called the semifinal “the most important match” of his career to date and said that “the best birthday present would be winning tomorrow.”