Spain predicted lineup vs France for FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final clash

La Roja are aiming to reach the World Cup final for only the second time in their history.

Spain are set to take on France in a standout FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final clash at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on July 14. The European champions battled past a resolute Belgian side in their last outing to seal a second semi-final spot in the quadrennial tournament, and will look to go one step further against Les Bleus.

La Roja started their campaign with a shock goalless draw against debutants Cape Verde, but ended at the top of Group H with wins over Saudi Arabia (4-0) and Uruguay (1-0). Luis de la Fuente’s men then cruised past Austria 3-0 in the Round of 32 clash.

They had to dig deeper in the next game against Portugal, sealing a 1-0 win courtesy of a late strike from Mikel Merino. The Arsenal midfielder was the matchwinner in the next game against Belgium as well, scoring late to seal a 2-1 victory.

Also Read: What happened last time Spain played in World Cup semi-final?

Who will be expected in Spain starting lineup?

Much has been discussed about de la Fuente sticking with Unai Simon as his No. 1 ahead of David Raya and Joan Garcia, but the Athletic Club custodian currently leads the tournament charts for most clean sheets. He can expect to keep his spot between the sticks in the next game as well.

Pau Cubarsi and Aymeric Laporte have been ever-present in the heart of defence for La Roja. They will be joined by Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella in the full-back positions.

Rodri is the beating heart of the Spanish midfield and is one of the first names on the team sheet. Alongside him, de la Fuente will likely retain Fabian Ruiz, who scored in the last game after replacing Pedri in the starting lineup.

Dani Olmo is expected to start in the No. 10 position, just behind Mikel Oyarzabal, with the latter having scored four times in the tournament. Lamine Yamal has been lethal on the right flank and can also expect to start, with Alex Baena likely keeping his place on the left wing.

Spain predicted lineup vs Spain

Spain predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri (c), Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Alex Baena; Mikel Oyarzabal.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.