Why is Nico Williams benched in France vs Spain FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal?

By Dilpreet

Dilpreet has been covering football since 2020 and writing for Khel Now since 2025, covering World Football with a sharp perspective and a genuine passion for the game.

Published at :July 14, 2026 at 11:56 PM

Modified at :July 14, 2026 at 11:57 PM

Nico Williams Spain v Saudi Arabia: Group H - FIFA World Cup 2026

The 24-year-old is yet to score a goal in the flagship tournament.

A place in the grand finale is on the line. The Spain national football team will go head-to-head against the France national football team for their FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final.

La Roja are the European Champions and have secured back-to-back wins in their last two fixtures against Les Bleus. They will be looking to secure a win once again. The Luis de la Fuente-led side has performed well in the mega competition this year. They have only conceded one goal so far in the tournament, but against a sharp French attack, it will be a tough test to face for them.

Unai Simón has been doing a commendable job between the sticks for Spain. Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella and Pedro Porro have formed a strong backline. These players are one of the strong suits of this Spanish side. Captain Rodri and Fabian Ruiz were good against Belgium.

Their finishing in the final third is what they should look out for.

Also Read: Spain starting lineup vs France confirmed as Lamine Yamal named for FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final match

Why is Nico Williams benched against France?

ERLIN, GERMANY - JULY 14: Nico Williams of Spain celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the UEFA EURO 2024 final match between Spain and England at Olympiastadion on July 14, 2024 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images) — ERLIN, GERMANY – JULY 14: Nico Williams of Spain celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA EURO 2024 final match between Spain and England at Olympiastadion on July 14, 2024 in Berlin, Germany. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Nico Williams is once again starting on the bench for the Spain national football team. He has not started in a single game for La Roja in the FIFA World Cup 2026 so far. His performances for his nation have been decent enough and he should have been given a chance in the playing XI for the France vs Spain semifinal.

Luis de la Fuente’s men will have an important job to do on the attacking front against Les Bleus. Alex Baena will start on the left flank and Lamine Yamal on the right. Dani Olmo is going to be the attacking midfielder. Mikel Oyarzabal will be up ahead in a sole striker setup.

Nico Williams might come in as a substitute later in the game for Spain.

Will Lamine Yamal play in France vs Spain FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal?

Yes, the teenage sensation is going to start for La Roja.

Where and how to watch FIFA World Cup for free in India?

Doordarshan’s DD Sports channel will broadcast all the quarterfinal games for free.

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Dilpreet

Dilpreet is a dedicated football writer with a keen eye for World Football. As a proud Real Madrid fan, we believe his work reflects the same ambition and precision. Since joining Khel Now in 2025, he has crafted stories beyond scores, diving into tactics, culture, and emotion. With a strong background in content writing, he blends clarity with creativity, always aiming to bring the beautiful game closer to readers.