A blockbuster semi-final clash awaits at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as France prepare to take on Spain. The highly anticipated encounter is scheduled for Tuesday, July 14, at Arlington’s AT&T Stadium in the USA. The match is set to kick off at 9pm Central European Time (CET).
Paths to the Semi-Finals
France secured their place in the final four with a dominant 2-0 victory over Morocco in their quarter-final fixture. Les Bleus showcased their formidable form, ensuring their progression in the tournament.
Spain’s journey to the semi-finals involved overcoming Belgium in a hard-fought quarter-final match held on Friday night at Inglewood’s SoFi Stadium. The game saw Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Fabian Ruiz open the scoring for Spain. Belgium’s Charles de Ketelaere, an Atalanta Bergamo striker, then equalised, becoming the first player to score against Spain in this World Cup. However, Mikel Merino, who also scored against Portugal in the previous round, netted the winning goal in the dying minutes, capitalising on an error from Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens, to send La Roja through.
A Familiar Rivalry
This upcoming semi-final marks the third consecutive tournament where France and Spain will meet at this stage. Their recent history includes a memorable encounter in the 2024 UEFA Euros semi-finals, where Spain secured a 2-1 comeback victory against Les Bleus in Munich. In that match, Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo found the net for Spain, overturning an early lead given to France by Randal Kolo Muani.
Another high-scoring affair between the two nations was a nine-goal UEFA Nations League classic, which Spain ultimately won 5-4. These past encounters highlight the competitive nature and attacking prowess often displayed when these two football giants face each other.
As both teams eye a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, the match at AT&T Stadium promises to be a thrilling contest between two of Europe’s footballing powerhouses.