Spain vs France combined XI | Euro 2024 semi-final
This lineup can beat any team in the world.
Spain showed their champion’s potential by topping their group without conceding a single goal. In the last 16, they defeated Georgia convincingly. Their biggest challenge came in the quarter-final against Germany, which they won in the dying minutes of extra time.
In contrast, France faced a tough challenge after being drawn into the group of deaths alongside the Netherlands, high-flying Austria, and Poland. Les Bleus finished second and were drawn against Belgium in the last 16. Didier Deschamps’ side secured a narrow victory over Belgium. They faced their biggest test against Portugal, which they won after a penalty shootout.
Let’s take a look at the combined XI of Spain vs France and how they would look if they were on the same team:
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK: Unai Simon
Unai Simon has become the team’s number-one goalkeeper. He has been in excellent form for Spain, making impressive saves, including a crucial one against Germany. So far, Simon has kept two clean sheets in four matches and also saved a penalty against Croatia, helping his team to finish the match without conceding. Simon also is a excellent passer of the ball and can make difference with his incredible passing.
RB: Jules Kounde
Jules Kounde has been remarkable in the tournament, leading the Les Blues to the semi-final. Although he has predominantly played as a center-back throughout his career, he adeptly filled in at the right-back position, a role he is familiar with from his time at Barcelona this season. Not only has Kounde effectively fulfilled his defensive responsibilities, but he has also created 11 scoring opportunities for his teammates.
CB: William Saliba
William Saliba has quickly become one of the best defenders in a short time. Following an incredible season with Arsenal, where he was arguably one of their best defenders, he has carried the same form to the national team. His game reading, coupled with his positional awareness, makes him an outstanding defender. In this tournament, France has yet to concede an open goal due to the brilliance of Saliba and Upamecano.
CB: Aymeric Laporte
Aymeric Laporte has been impressive for La Roja, delivering consistent performances throughout the tournament. Although he began as a substitute, he quickly grabbed the opportunity and performed exceptionally well. In the quarter-final match against Germany, he put in an excellent performance, effectively limiting the opposition’s threat. Laporte has also displayed great discipline, going through the entire tournament without receiving a single yellow card.
LB: Marc Cucurella
Cucurella has made significant progress recently. Initially, he struggled to make the squad and establish himself in the team, but he has come a long way since then. He finished the season in impressive form, which earned him a call-up to the national team. In the tournament, he has been solid as a left-back, making 17 recoveries, winning 8 tackles, and making 6 interceptions.
CM: N’Golo Kante
Didier Deschamps’ decision to recall him to the team has proven to be a masterstroke, as he helped them qualify for the semi-finals. He has arguably been the best performer for the team, delivering consistent performances from the midfield. In this Euro, he has also improved his creativity by creating several chances. Kante’s ability to be the midfield destroyer has made a significant difference so far.
CM: Rodri
Rodri has established himself as one of the best players over the years. He effectively plays the anchor role for La Roja, keeping things simple and tidy in the middle of the park, which makes him a key player. His ability to control the tempo of the game and set the pace makes him a perfect fit for the team. Rodri also shone on a big occasion by scoring the equalizer against Georgia, bringing Spain back into the contest.
Also read: Euro 2024: What is Kylian Mbappe’s record against Spain?
RW: Lamine Yamal
Lamine Yamal has been a sensation for Spain, delivering impressive performances for the team. He has looked unplayable in the tournament, with defenders finding him a nightmare to defend. His importance to the team is unmatched as he has played an important role in all the matches. It was his wonderful pass that set up the opening goal for Dani Olmo. He created havoc in the German half with his dribbling and pace, not allowing their defenders to settle in the game.
AM: Antoine Griezmann
Antoine Griezmann has become an instrumental part of the team with his ability to link up between the defense and attack. He enjoyed a fantastic season with Atletico Madrid, scoring 24 goals and providing another 8 assists. Despite showing early promise, he has yet to hit top gear for the team. However, he could prove to be the difference in this match.
LW: Nico Williams
Another young player who has been outstanding in the tournament is Nico Williams. His exceptional speed and skill have made it difficult for the opposing team’s defenders to handle him. Williams has incredible pace and can easily get past defenders. In the last match, he came close to scoring the winning goal, but a last-minute tackle saved the day for the Germans. The usually dependable Kimmich struggled to contain him.
ST: Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe is one of the best players in the world, but he has not yet reached his peak form. He has played four games for the team and scored the only goal against Poland. Mbappe’s exceptional speed allows him to easily beat opposition defenders. His direct approach to goal, combined with his precise finishing, could be the deciding factor in this match.
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